6-Day Adventure Itinerary in Peru

  1. Day 1: Lima
    30min from Jorge Chavez International Airport

    Start your adventure in the bustling city of Lima. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit the stunning Cathedral of Lima and the San Francisco Monastery with its eerie catacombs.

  2. Day 2: Paracas
    4 hours (153.5 miles) from Lima

    Take a scenic bus ride from Lima to Paracas, a beautiful coastal town known for its excellent seafood, watersports, and natural beauty. Boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, also known as the 'poor man's Galapagos,' where you can see sea lions, penguins, and various seabirds in their natural habitat.

  3. Day 3: Huacachina
    2 hours (50 miles) from Paracas

    A desert oasis surrounded by giant sand dunes, Huacachina is famous for its adrenaline-pumping sandboarding and dune buggy rides. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the sunset from the top of the dunes and enjoy a traditional Peruvian BBQ under the stars.

  4. Day 4: Nazca
    1 hour (47 miles) from Huacachina

    For adventure-seekers, a thrilling flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines is a must-do activity in Peru. These massive geoglyphs cover an area of about 450 square kilometers and remain one of the world's unsolved ancient mysteries.

  5. Day 5: Cusco
    10 hours (461.3 miles) from Nazca

    Cusco, the historical capital of the Inca Empire, is a charming city surrounded by stunning Andean mountains. Visit the incredible Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Q'enqo, the centuries-old Cusco Cathedral, the bustling San Pedro Market, and enjoy some local delicacies such as cuy (guinea pig) or alpaca meat.

  6. Day 6: Machu Picchu
    3.5 hours (49 miles) from Cusco

    Come face-to-face with one of the 7 Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu. A guided tour of the ancient Inca city is a must-do experience in Peru. Revel at the impressive architecture, magnificent terraces, and stunning vistas from the top while learning about the fascinating history of the Lost City of the Incas.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Cathedral of Lima (1 hour, free)
  • San Francisco Monastery (1 hour, S/7)
  • Ballestas Islands tour (2 hours, S/60)
  • Sandboarding and Dune Buggy Tour (3 hours, S/180)
  • Nazca Lines Flight (30 mins, $90-150 depending on the airline)
  • Sacsayhuaman (1 hour, S/70)
  • Machu Picchu Tour (4 hours, S/240)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding accommodation, food, and transport): S/ 557

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider spending a day or two in Arequipa, often referred to as the 'White City' due to its white volcanic stone architecture. For fewer days, it is recommended to skip Nazca or Paracas in favor of spending more time in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Remember to acclimate to the high altitude before undertaking strenuous activities. Pack accordingly for various activities such as swimming, hiking, and sandboarding.

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