Lima is the capital city of Peru. It is known for its historical architecture, museums, and beautiful beaches. One of the top things to do in Lima is to take a walking tour of the historic center. It is also worth visiting the Larco Museum, which houses pre-Columbian art and artifacts from ancient Peru. Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the restaurants in the Miraflores district.
Paracas is a beautiful natural reserve area located along the coast. The main attraction is the Ballestas Islands, where you can see sea lions, penguins, and various bird species. Boat tours are available daily. Be sure to visit the Paracas National Reserve, where you can hike and witness the beautiful landscapes.
Huacachina is an oasis in the desert near Ica. It is known for its sand dunes and sandboarding activities. Take a buggy ride over the dunes and enjoy the sunset with a picnic. At night, enjoy a bonfire and some local drinks under the stars.
Arequipa is known as the "white city" due to its buildings made of white volcanic stone. The main attraction is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a colorful maze of alleys, beautiful gardens, and interesting history. Additionally, the Colca Canyon is worth visiting to see the beautiful views of the natural landscape and the Andean condors.
Puno is the gateway to the famous Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the floating islands of the Uros people, which are made of reeds. Take a boat ride to Taquile Island to see the beautiful textiles and witness the customs and traditions of the natives.
Cusco is the former capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its historical architecture, museums, and famous food. Take a day trip to see the Sacred Valley, which includes the famous Inca town of Pisac and the Ollantaytambo ruins. Spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude before embarking on the Machu Picchu trek.
Embark on the famous 4-day trek to Machu Picchu. This trek will take you through beautiful landscapes, Inca ruins, and high altitude passes. Spend a night at a traditional homestay in a local community and learn about the traditions and customs of the Andean people. Arrive at Machu Picchu on day 4 at sunrise and witness the majestic beauty of the ruins.
Return to Cusco and spend some more time exploring the city. Visit the famous Plaza de Armas, the Cusco Cathedral, and the Coricancha, the golden temple of the Incas. Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado.
Depart from Lima and say goodbye to Peru. Be sure to buy some souvenirs or local handicrafts at the airport before leaving.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Nazca Lines or the Amazon Rainforest. If you have less time, consider skipping Huacachina or Puno. Be sure to pack for different weather conditions, as the climate can vary throughout the trip. Additionally, be prepared for the high altitude in places like Cusco and Puno.