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22-day Peru travel itinerary August 1-22 2026

Viewed by 71 travelers
Day 1 · Sat, Aug 1
Lima

Arrival in Lima and settle in

Morning:

After landing at Jorge Chávez International Airport, you'll transfer to your boutique stay at Hotel Casa Andina Premium in Miraflores, where a quick refresh awaits. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Café Bisetti before strolling along the Malecón de Miraflores, soaking in panoramic Pacific views and snapping photos at the iconic Parque del Amor.

Afternoon:

After the afternoon sun climbs, head to the bohemian Barranco neighborhood, wandering its colorful streets to discover the iconic Puente de los Suspiros and vibrant street art. Stop by the contemporary MATE - Museo Mario Testino to admire fashion photography and Peruvian culture. Conclude the day with a dinner of ceviche at the historic La Mar Cebichería overlooking the Pacific, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Evening:

After dusk, head to the illuminated Magic Water Gardens in Parque de la Reserva for a dazzling fountain and light show, then wander through the upscale Larcomar complex to enjoy panoramic Pacific views while sipping a pisco sour at its rooftop lounge, and finish the night with a craft cocktail at the trendy Bar Central, soaking up Lima's vibrant nightlife.

Day 2 · Sun, Aug 2
Lima

Lima city tour – historic center and Plaza Mayor

Morning:

Start the morning with a guided stroll through Lima's historic centre, beginning at the majestic Plaza Mayor, where you'll admire the Cathedral of Lima and the impressive Government Palace with its changing-guard ceremony. Continue to the atmospheric San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs and ornate baroque library, then wander down Jirón de la Unión to sample a traditional café con leche and a flaky picarones at the charming Café del Museo. Conclude with a brief visit to the elegant Palacio de Torre Tagle, whose colonial wooden façade offers a perfect photo backdrop.

Afternoon:

In the early afternoon, wander to the elegant Plaza San Martín, where the grand Statue of José de San Martín watches over the historic Palacio de la Exposición, now hosting rotating art exhibits. Continue with a short walk to the pre-Inca ruins of Huaca Pucllana, exploring its illuminated underground chambers on a guided tour that reveals centuries-old secrets. Finish with a leisurely coffee at the stylish Café del Museo Larco overlooking the Parque de la Muralla, savoring a traditional pisco sour as the sun dips over the city.

Evening:

As the sun sets, savor an unforgettable dinner at Astrid y Gastón, where Chef Gastón Acurio reinterprets classic Peruvian flavors with a modern twist, then sip a craft pisco cocktail at the chic rooftop bar Rooftop at Hotel B. Cap the evening with an authentic night of Afro-Peruvian music and dancing at Peña La 101, a beloved local venue that will leave you humming the rhythms of Lima.

Day 3 · Mon, Aug 3
Lima

Museum day – Larco Museum and Magic Water Gardens

Morning:

Begin the morning with a guided exploration of Museo Larco, where the world-renowned collection of pre-Columbian ceramics and an intimate cacao tasting session let you savor ancient flavors while admiring exquisitely preserved artifacts. Afterward, wander a few blocks to the Museo de la Nación for a deeper dive into Inca and colonial treasures, then pause for a refreshing mate at the charming Café Santo Domingo on Avenida Arequipa.

Afternoon:

After a light lunch, wander to the sprawling Parque de la Reserva where the world-renowned Magic Water Gardens come alive with a kaleidoscope of lights, music, and water choreography-perfect for snapping unforgettable photos and enjoying a chilled maracuyá granizado from a nearby stand. Continue your cultural immersion with a stroll through the bohemian Barranco neighborhood, admiring the vivid Mural de la Amistad and pausing for a craft pisco sour at the trendy Café Vinilo, where live jazz sets the mood for a relaxed afternoon.

Evening:

As dusk settles, indulge in a seaside feast at Cevichería El Mercado, where the chef's signature ceviche pairs perfectly with a handcrafted pisco sour. After dinner, wander to the lively Parque Kennedy in Miraflores to soak up street performances and browse artisanal stalls, then cap the night with a classic cocktail at the historic Bar Inglés inside Hotel Bolivar, enjoying its old-world charm under soft jazz tones.

Day 4 · Tue, Aug 4
Paracas

Travel to Paracas and explore the coast

Morning:

After a smooth early-morning bus ride from Lima, arrive in Paracas and head straight to the dramatic cliffs of Paracas National Reserve, where a guided walk along the sandy dunes reveals hidden lagoons and native wildlife such as sea lions and flamingos. Continue to the secluded Playa Roja, famous for its striking crimson sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a quick dip or a sunrise photo session. Finish the morning with a leisurely stroll through the bustling Paracas Port market, sampling fresh ceviche at the family-run stall Mariscos El Coral while watching fishermen bring in the day's catch.

Afternoon:

After lunch, head to the historic Paracas Museum, where interactive exhibits trace the region's maritime heritage and showcase ancient Paracas textiles. Then stroll along the windswept Paracas Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Pacific and the nearby Isla del León rock formation, before unwinding with a sunset cocktail on the cliff-side terrace of the boutique Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort.

Evening:

After the sun dips, enjoy a dinner of fresh Ceviche del Mar at the cliff-side Restaurant El Candelabro, where you can watch the waves glitter under lantern light. Afterwards, stroll to the lively Plaza de la Marina for a night-market vibe, sampling local pisco sour at Bar La Ola while acoustic guitarra players set the mood.

Day 5 · Wed, Aug 5
Paracas

Boat tour to the Ballestas Islands and wildlife watching

Morning:

Depart from the Paracas Marina at sunrise for a thrilling boat ride to the Ballestas Islands, where you'll glide among towering cliffs alive with playful sea lions, curious dolphins and a bustling frigatebird colony. Afterward, the vessel heads to the secluded Cabo San Lorenzo, offering a short walk on windswept sands and a rare glimpse of the Andean gull before returning to shore for a light lunch at the beachfront Café del Mar.

Afternoon:

After a leisurely lunch, embark on an exhilarating 4x4 dune adventure across the towering Dunas de Paracas, where you can try sandboarding and soak in sweeping ocean vistas from the Mirador de los Pescadores; later, unwind with a sunset cocktail at the beachfront lounge of Hotel San Agustín, savoring a cactus-infused pisco sour as the day fades.

Evening:

After the dune adventure, head to the charming beachfront restaurant La Casa del Mar for a sunset feast of freshly caught ceviche and a signature cactus-infused pisco sour. Then wander to the lively Paracas Artesanal Market, where you can browse hand-woven textiles and sample local sweets under lantern light. Finish the night with a guided stargazing session on the sands of Playa El Tunco, where an astronomer points out constellations over the Pacific horizon.

Day 6 · Thu, Aug 6
Huacachina

Day trip to Huacachina oasis and sandboarding

Morning:

Start the day with a sunrise stroll around the crystal-clear Huacachina Oasis, where the palm-fringed lagoon reflects the golden dunes. After a light breakfast at the breezy Café del Sol, hop aboard a Dune Buggy Safari that whisks you to the towering Great Dune for an adrenaline-filled sandboarding session, then reward yourself with a refreshing cactus-infused pisco sour at the shaded Bar La Onda.

Afternoon:

After the morning adventure, glide across the serene waters of Laguna Azul on a paddle-board, then savor a relaxed lunch at the seaside Restaurant El Pirata, where freshly caught fish meets a splash of aji. In the late afternoon, hop on a 4x4 to the breathtaking Mirador del Cielo for panoramic desert sunset views, and conclude with a cactus-infused cocktail at the breezy Bar El Oasis as the dunes turn golden.

Evening:

After the sun sets over the dunes, enjoy a dinner of traditional cuy chactado at the charming Restaurante El Buen Gusto, where a live Andean music troupe creates a festive atmosphere. Then, wander to the nearby Mirador de la Luna for sweeping night-time views of the oasis lit by stars, and finish the night with a handcrafted pisco sour at the intimate Bodega de Pisco La Caravedo on the oasis promenade.

Day 7 · Fri, Aug 7
Arequipa

Transfer to Arequipa, afternoon at leisure

Morning:

In the early morning, your comfortable coach departs the desert oasis and rolls onto the Pan-American Highway, where a quick stop at the Mirador de los Veleros offers a breathtaking view of the Nazca Lines etched into the plains. After a brief stretch at the dramatic Cañón del Río Grande, the journey continues southward, and you arrive in Arequipa to be welcomed at the elegant Hotel Casa Arequipa, where a light lunch and a moment to settle in await.

Afternoon:

After settling into your hotel, stroll to the vibrant Plaza de Armas, where the gleaming white walls of the Cathedral of Arequipa and surrounding colonial architecture provide an unforgettable photo backdrop. Later, unwind with a café con leche at the cozy Café del Alma while admiring the pastel-hued arches of the Yanahuara District, or wander the winding corridors of the historic Santa Catalina Monastery for a peaceful glimpse into centuries-old cloistered life.

Evening:

As twilight settles, head to Casa del Moral for a gourmet dinner where traditional Arequipeñan flavors meet contemporary techniques, highlighted by the signature rocoto relleno. After the meal, stroll up to the Mirador de Sachaca for sweeping night views of the illuminated Misti Volcano, then unwind with a nightcap at the lively El Montonero bar, sipping a locally distilled pisco sour.

Day 8 · Sat, Aug 8
Arequipa

Guided tour of Arequipa’s colonial architecture

Morning:

In the morning, a local guide will lead you through the elegant Plaza de San Camilo, where the baroque façade of the Church of San Camilo and the ornate Casa del Fundador showcase the city's Spanish colonial legacy. You'll then wander to the nearby Museo Santuarios Andinos, home to the famous ice-preserved mummy Juanita, before strolling along the cobblestones of Barrio San Lázaro, admiring its pastel-colored mansions and the historic Monastery of La Recolección with its beautifully tiled courtyard.

Afternoon:

Your afternoon begins with a stroll across the sun-kissed Plaza de Armas, where the towering Cathedral of Arequipa greets you with its intricate baroque façade and a golden altar that sparkles in the late-day light. A short walk leads to the off-the-beaten-path Museo de la Tapa, where over two thousand hand-painted wooden lids reveal vivid scenes of colonial daily life, followed by a relaxing pause at the historic Café del Alma in the Yanahuara District, sipping a pisco-infused tea while the white-washed arches frame a perfect view of the looming Misti volcano.

Evening:

After the guided tour, unwind with a dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Palomino, where you can savor classic Arequipeñan dishes such as rocoto relleno and adobo amid a historic colonial setting. Then take a leisurely stroll down Calle Mercaderes to the vibrant Bar El Búho, enjoying a craft pisco sour and live Andean folk music as the lantern-lit facades glow around you.

Day 9 · Sun, Aug 9
Colca Canyon

Excursion to Colca Canyon – see condors

Morning:

Depart early from Arequipa and arrive at the breathtaking Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where the first light highlights the graceful flight of Andean condors over the dramatic Colca Canyon. After the bird-watching, head to the charming village of Chivay for a traditional lunch before strolling to the panoramic Mirador del Candelabro, offering sweeping views of the canyon's layered terraces.

Afternoon:

In the early afternoon, descend toward Cabanaconde, the gateway town, where you can wander the bustling market and sample a hearty quinoa soup at a family-run eatery. Afterward, unwind in the therapeutic La Calera hot springs, soaking in mineral-rich waters while the surrounding Andean peaks glow in the setting sun. The day concludes with a guided walk through the historic Santo Domingo Mine, where you'll discover centuries-old silver extraction techniques and peek into the cavernous tunnels that once powered the region's economy.

Evening:

As the sun dips behind the canyon walls, head to the rustic Restaurant El Oropesa in the high-altitude village of Maca, where you can savor a plate of slow-roasted cuy alongside a quinoa-and-purple potato salad, all while the glow of the setting light paints the surrounding peaks. After dinner, immerse yourself in Andean culture at the lively Casa del Folclore, where local musicians play the charango and siku, traditional dancers swirl in colorful costumes, and a tasting of artisanal pisco infused with coca leaf rounds off the evening.

Day 10 · Mon, Aug 10
Arequipa

Return to Arequipa, relax and enjoy local cuisine

Morning:

Begin the morning with a gentle walk to the tranquil Sabandía Valley, where you can sip freshly brewed Peruvian coffee at the historic Café de la Hacienda and admire the rolling orchards. Then head to the Botanical Garden of Arequipa for a guided tour of native Andean flora, followed by a hands-on cooking workshop at Alma del Campo, where you'll learn to prepare traditional rocoto relleno using locally sourced ingredients.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon wandering the lively Mercado San Camilo, where you can sample sizzling anticuchos and fresh quinoa salads from bustling stalls, then savor a traditional Arequipeñan lunch at the historic Picantería La Luz famed for its spicy rocoto relleno. Afterward, unwind with a leisurely stroll to the Museo de Arte Virreinal, admiring colonial paintings while enjoying a refreshing cóctel de maracuyá at its rooftop café overlooking the white-washed city.

Evening:

After a day of travel, settle in for a cozy dinner at La Tradición, where you can savor classic Arequipeñan dishes like adobo and rocoto relleno paired with a house-made pisco cocktail. Afterwards, take a short walk to the Mirador de los Siete Picos to admire the illuminated Misti Volcano against the night sky, and finish the evening with a relaxed tasting of regional pisco varieties at the atmospheric Casa del Pisco bar.

Day 11 · Tue, Aug 11
Cusco

Fly to Cusco, afternoon acclimatization walk

Morning:

Take an early flight from Arequipa to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, where a private transfer will whisk you to your boutique Novotel Cusco for a quick refresh and a light Andean-style breakfast. Then enjoy a gentle, altitude-friendly stroll through the historic San Blas quarter, admiring artisan workshops and the panoramic city views from the San Blas Church before returning to the hotel to rest before the afternoon walk.

Afternoon:

In the early afternoon, wander from the bustling Plaza de Armas down the cobbled Calle del Medio, pausing to admire the intricate stonework of the Cusco Cathedral and the ancient walls of the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) with a brief guided insight into Inca astronomy. Then continue the gentle ascent to the panoramic Sacsayhuamán terrace for sweeping city views, and unwind with a refreshing chicha de jora at the historic Café Casa Verde, letting the altitude settle as you soak in the vibrant Andean atmosphere.

Evening:

As twilight settles, savor a candlelit dinner at Cicciolina, where Andean ingredients meet Mediterranean flair, then wander to the atmospheric Museo de Arte Precolombino for an evening glimpse of ancient goldwork bathed in soft lighting, and finish the night with a handcrafted pisco cocktail at the rooftop Café del Museo, sipping the city's panorama of the illuminated Misti volcano.

Day 12 · Wed, Aug 12
Cusco

Cusco historic center and San Pedro Market

Morning:

Start your morning with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant San Pedro Market, where the aroma of fresh quinoa, roasted cuy chactado, and tropical fruits fills the air; sample a traditional bite and sip a sweet chicha morada from a local vendor. Continue to the historic Casa Concha to admire its colonial façade and explore the museum of Inca artifacts, then wander down Calle Hatun, lined with artisan workshops where weavers create vivid alpaca textiles. Conclude with a pause at the ornate Church of La Merced, enjoying a café pasado while taking in its baroque altarpieces.

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, wander from the bustling Plaza de Armas to the Museo Inka, where interactive exhibits bring the empire's history to life, then climb the stone steps to the Cusco Cathedral to admire its baroque altarpieces and golden façade. Afterwards, slip into the artistic San Blas quarter for a coffee at Café Ayllu, browse local workshops, and unwind with a refreshing chicha morada as the sun sets over the city.

Evening:

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a dinner at Uchupampa, where the open-air terrace offers panoramic views of the illuminated Misti while you savor specialties like alpaca steak and quinoa risotto. Then stroll to the nearby Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo for an intimate performance of Andean music and folkloric dance that brings the city's heritage to life. Conclude the night with a craft pisco cocktail at The Rabbit rooftop bar, enjoying the cool Andean breeze and the glittering lights of Cusco's historic skyline.

Day 13 · Thu, Aug 13
Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley tour – Pisac and market

Morning:

Start the morning with a guided ascent to the Pisac Archaeological Site, where you'll wander among well-preserved terraces, temples, and the iconic Temple of the Sun, soaking in sweeping views of the valley below. After exploring the ruins, descend to the vibrant Pisac Artisan Market to browse hand-woven textiles, silver jewelry, and fresh Andean produce while sampling a sweet chicha morada from a local vendor. Conclude with a brief walk to the nearby Plaza de los Incas, where a traditional pan flute performance greets you before heading back to your transport.

Afternoon:

After lunch, head to the remarkable Moray agricultural terraces, where you'll wander among the concentric circular fields that ancient Incas used as a crop-testing laboratory, then continue to the dazzling Salinas de Maras salt mines, strolling among thousands of pink salt pools while learning about centuries-old extraction methods. Conclude the afternoon with a traditional Andean dinner at Restaurant El Alambique in Urubamba, savoring freshly grilled trout and a glass of local chicha morada as the valley glows at sunset.

Evening:

After the day's explorations, head to the Llactapata viewpoint just outside Urubamba to watch the valley glow in sunset hues, then dine at Café del Valle, where you can savor Andean quinoa risotto and a locally-crafted pisco sour. End the night with a warm traditional music and dance show at the Centro de Desarrollo Rural Andino, offering a genuine taste of Andean folklore.

Day 14 · Fri, Aug 14
Ollantaytambo

Explore Ollantaytambo ruins and town

Morning:

Begin your morning with a guided walk through the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex, climbing the massive terraces and the Temple of the Sun while enjoying panoramic views of the Urubamba River. Afterwards, wander the cobblestone streets of the Ollantaytambo town center, stopping at the colorful local market to sample fresh fruit and handmade textiles, and visit the historic Railway Station where the famed Inca Trail train departs.

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, cross the iconic Inca Bridge that spans the river below the terraces, then hike the short trail to the secluded Patallacta ruins, where stone terraces reveal panoramic valley views. Afterwards, join a hands-on Andean chocolate workshop at the Casa de Cacao, blending native cacao with local fruits, and conclude with a visit to the Ollantaytambo Textile Cooperative to watch artisans practice traditional weaving and pick up a unique souvenir.

Evening:

As the sun sets, head to El Albergue, a charming colonial inn-restaurant where you can savor a candle-lit dinner of alpaca lomo saltado and quinoa risotto, complemented by a curated pisco tasting. Afterwards, wander a short walk to the Pukara Cultural Center for an intimate performance of Andean folk music and traditional dance, then finish the evening with a nightcap at the rooftop Bar Cielo, sipping a coca-leaf infused cocktail while the valley lights twinkle below.

Day 15 · Sat, Aug 15
Machu Picchu

Early train to Aguas Calientes and first visit to Machu Picchu

Morning:

Board the PeruRail Vistadome at Poroy Station before sunrise, enjoying sweeping Andean vistas as the train snakes through cloud forests toward Aguas Calientes; upon arrival, take the short shuttle up to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, where a guide introduces you to the iconic Temple of the Sun, the enigmatic Intihuatana, and the impressive terraced fields, all framed by mist-cloaked peaks for unforgettable photos.

Afternoon:

After the sunrise train journey, head up to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for a breathtaking panorama of the citadel's terraces, then wander to the Temple of the Three Windows to admire its stone arches and learn about Inca cosmology. Wrap up the afternoon with a leisurely lunch at the riverside Tree House Café, followed by a soothing soak in the natural hot springs overlooking the Urubamba valley.

Evening:

After descending from the citadel, enjoy a relaxed dinner at the atmospheric Indio Feliz restaurant, where you can savor Andean trout ceviche and a house-made pisco sour under lantern light. Then wander to the nearby Puerta del Sol viewpoint for a twilight panorama of the mountains, followed by an intimate performance of traditional Quechua music at the Casa del Guardián, offering a perfect cultural close to your first Machu Picchu night.

Day 16 · Sun, Aug 16
Machu Picchu

Second day at Machu Picchu – hike to Huayna Picchu

Morning:

Begin the day with a sunrise ascent to Huayna Picchu, where the steep climb rewards you with sweeping vistas of the citadel and the surrounding Andes. After descending, cross the ancient Inca Bridge for a thrilling walk over the sheer canyon, then continue to the lesser-known Temple of the Condor tucked among the stone terraces. Conclude the hike with a gentle trek up Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic photos, before stopping at the modest Machu Picchu Museum to learn about the site's archaeology and preservation.

Afternoon:

After a hearty lunch, descend to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for a breathtaking panorama of the citadel bathed in afternoon light, then stroll to the evocative Temple of the Three Windows and the nearby Royal Tombs to admire the intricate stonework. Wrap up the day with a soothing cup of locally sourced coffee at the charming Coffee & Chocolate Café perched beside the tranquil Guinea Pig Museum, letting the sounds of the forest lull you into relaxation.

Evening:

As dusk settles, unwind with a leisurely dinner at Casa del Sol, where you can savor Amazonian fish ceviche and a house-made pisco sour while listening to soft Andean harp melodies. Afterwards, take a short walk to the Aguas Calientes Orchid Garden for a tranquil night stroll among illuminated native orchids, then end the evening with a stargazing session at the Machu Picchu Night Sky Observatory, where a local guide points out constellations over the Sacred Valley.

Day 17 · Mon, Aug 17
Cusco

Return to Cusco, free afternoon

Morning:

After the early train, you'll board a private transfer back to Cusco, arriving mid-morning. Start with a gentle walk to the serene Tambomachay ruins, where the cascading fountains and stone channels offer a peaceful introduction to the Inca's water engineering. Afterwards, unwind with a cup of organic Peruvian coffee at the hidden-gem Café Casa Verde, perched in the historic San Blas quarter, while admiring the neighborhood's white-washed arches.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant San Pedro Market, sampling fresh alpaca jerky, tropical fruit juices, and a glass of chicha morada while browsing colorful textiles. Then wander to the historic Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) to marvel at its exquisite Inca stonework beside colonial architecture, pausing for a craft pisco sour at the rooftop Café del Museo with panoramic city views. Conclude with a leisurely stroll through the serene Cerro San Cristóbal park, taking in sweeping vistas of the Andes and Cusco's red-tiled rooftops.

Evening:

As the sun sets, wander up to the majestic Sacsayhuamán fortress for breathtaking twilight views of the city, then take a short hike to Pukapukara for sweeping panoramas of the surrounding valleys. After descending, savor a flavorful alpaca steak dinner at Pachapapa, a cozy stone-oven eatery in the historic center, and finish the night with a handcrafted pisco sour at the rooftop Bar Limbus, overlooking the illuminated Plaza de Armas.

Day 18 · Tue, Aug 18
Cusco

Day trip to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Morning:

Set off early from Cusco and climb to the breathtaking Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), where the sunrise paints the seven-colored peaks in vivid reds, greens, and purples. Along the trail, pause at the traditional Quechua village of Llicuar for a quick snack of coca tea and fresh alpaca cheese, then continue to the panoramic Cerro Siete Colores viewpoint to snap photos of the swirling mineral strata and grazing llamas. A brief stop at the high-altitude Laguna Chullcayoc offers a reflective mirror of the sky, perfect for a quiet moment before descending.

Afternoon:

After descending, the group will travel to the charming high-altitude town of Chinchero, where you can explore its colorful market and watch skilled weavers create intricate textiles using centuries-old techniques. A short walk will bring you to the ancient Inca stone bridge spanning the river, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, followed by a hearty Andean lunch featuring quinoa, alpaca, and local cheese at a family-run Casa Rural. To round out the afternoon, enjoy a guided tasting of freshly milled quinoa and native herbs at the nearby Quinoa Farm, learning about sustainable agriculture before returning to Cusco.

Evening:

After a thrilling day in the high Andes, descend back to Cusco and savor a celebratory dinner at Cicciolina, where innovative Andean flavors mingle with Mediterranean flair. Afterwards, wander to the vibrant Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo for an intimate showcase of traditional music and dance, then cap the night with a handcrafted pisco sour at the rooftop The Rabbit bar, soaking in sweeping views of the illuminated cityscape.

Day 19 · Wed, Aug 19
Puno

Travel to Puno, lakeside evening walk

Morning:

Board the luxurious Andean Explorer at Cusco Railway Station for a sunrise trek across the high Andes, watching snow-capped peaks and rolling puna grasslands glide by. Upon arriving in Puno, enjoy a guided stroll along the Lake Titicaca promenade, visiting the historic Yavari Boat Museum and the soaring Puno Cathedral, then take a short drive to the enigmatic Sillustani Funerary Towers for a breathtaking glimpse of pre-Inca burial architecture.

Afternoon:

After settling into your hotel, wander along the Puno lakeside boardwalk toward the vibrant Parque del Sol, where sweeping lake vistas and the charming Mirador del Lago provide perfect sunset photo opportunities. Continue to the historic Plaza de Armas de Puno, sample tasty local street-food treats at nearby stalls, and let the gentle evening light reflect off the water for a truly memorable lakeside walk.

Evening:

As the sun sets, stroll to the enchanting Uros floating islands where the reed homes glow in the fading light, then savor a dinner of lake-caught trout at the charming Restaurant La Balsa perched on the shore. Afterwards, unwind with a glass of chicha de quinoa at the intimate Bar Los Pichas, while the gentle strains of traditional Andean music fill the evening air.

Day 20 · Thu, Aug 20
Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca – Uros floating islands tour

Morning:

Begin the morning with a gentle boat departure from the Puno Port across the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca, where the sunrise paints the horizon in pastel hues. Dock at the Uros floating islands, guided by local families who demonstrate the ancient art of reed weaving and invite you to step onto their handcrafted homes for an authentic cultural immersion.

Afternoon:

After the sunrise visit to the Uros, glide across the lake to Taquile Island, where you'll wander the steep cobblestone lanes to the Pachatuta viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the water and surrounding mountains. Continue with an interactive workshop at the Taquile Textile Museum, watching master weavers demonstrate the centuries-old backstrap technique, and savor a home-cooked lunch of lake trout and quinoa at the family-run Casa del Sol before returning to Puno.

Evening:

After the sunset cruise, savor a lakeside dinner at Restaurant Inca, where you can taste grilled trout seasoned with local herbs while the water glistens under lantern light. Afterwards, stroll to the Cultural Center Puno for a lively performance of traditional Andean music and dance, then end the night with a quiet walk along the illuminated Puno Lakeside Promenade.

Day 21 · Fri, Aug 21
Lake Titicaca

Taquile Island visit and cultural exchange

Morning:

Begin the morning with a gentle ferry ride across Lake Titicaca to Taquile Island, where you'll be greeted by the welcoming community of Pachatuta and invited to explore the Taquile Textile Museum, marveling at the intricate backstrap weaving techniques passed down through generations. After the museum, wander up to the Pachatuta viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views of the turquoise lake and surrounding Andes, then enjoy a light snack of locally harvested quinoa and fresh trout at the family-run Casa del Sol, where you can engage in a cultural exchange with island artisans.

Afternoon:

After the museum visit, join a hands-on cooking class at the Community Kitchen of Taquile, where a local family will teach you to prepare traditional quinoa stew and freshly-caught trout. Later, enjoy a lively music circle in the Minka Hall, listening to Andean harpists and learning a few steps of the traditional Tinku dance before boarding a sunset boat ride back to Puno, where you can sip a herbal tea on the deck as the lake turns gold.

Evening:

After returning to Puno, stroll to the Mirador de la Puna to watch the lake shimmer under the stars before heading to Casa del Lago for a dinner of grilled trout with a quinoa salad, paired with a locally brewed chicha. End the night with a relaxed drink at Bar La Selva, where you can enjoy a pisco sour while listening to soft Andean guitar melodies.

Day 22 · Sat, Aug 22
Lima

Return to Lima and departure

Morning:

After a restful night, start the morning with a short guided walk to the Huaca San José archaeological museum, where you can explore pre-Columbian artifacts and the on-site garden; then sip a perfectly brewed cup at the artisanal Café Verde on Calle San Martin, enjoying a light Peruvian breakfast before heading back to the hotel to collect your luggage for the flight.

Afternoon:

After landing at Jorge Chávez International Airport, enjoy a leisurely lunch aboard the floating restaurant La Rosa Náutica, where you can savor fresh ceviche while the Pacific breeze brushes past the historic Puente del Mar. Then wander the chic Parque del Amor promenade to snap one last photo of the iconic El Beso sculpture before heading back to the hotel to collect your bags for your onward flight.

Evening:

After a day of travel, treat yourself to a memorable farewell dinner at the celebrated Astrid y Gastón, where Chef Gastón Acurio blends tradition and innovation in every plate; then wander down to the vibrant Parque Kennedy for a final sip of a handcrafted pisco sour at the historic Bar Inglés, soaking up the lively evening buzz before heading to the airport.

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