Start your adventure in the vibrant capital city of Lima. In the morning, visit the historic center of Lima, also known as "Cercado de Lima," where you can explore the Plaza Mayor and admire the stunning architecture of the Government Palace and Lima Cathedral. Enjoy a delicious Peruvian lunch in the bohemian district of Barranco, known for its colorful streets and artistic vibe. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Larco Museum, home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art. As the evening sets in, head to the Miraflores district and stroll along the picturesque Malecon, enjoying breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Today, catch a flight from Lima to Cusco, the gateway to the ancient Inca civilization. In the morning, explore the fascinating ruins of Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress located on the outskirts of Cusco. Marvel at the massive stone walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afterward, visit the Qorikancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire and now home to the Santo Domingo Church. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant San Pedro Market, where you can sample local fruits and browse traditional handicrafts. In the evening, indulge in a delicious Peruvian dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Plaza de Armas.
Embark on a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley, a region known for its stunning landscapes and ancient Inca ruins. Start your day by visiting the archaeological site of Pisac, where you can explore the terraced hillside and browse the colorful handicraft market. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Urubamba River to the town of Ollantaytambo, where you can admire the well-preserved Inca fortress. In the afternoon, take a train to the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for your visit to the iconic Inca citadel tomorrow.
Today is the highlight of your trip as you explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Catch an early morning bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Spend the morning exploring the mysterious ruins and learning about the fascinating history of the Inca civilization. Take in the breathtaking views from the Sun Gate or hike up to the top of Huayna Picchu for a panoramic perspective. In the afternoon, descend back to Aguas Calientes and enjoy a well-deserved rest at the hot springs. Take an evening train back to Cusco.
Return to Lima for your last day in Peru. Spend the morning exploring the upscale district of Miraflores, known for its beautiful parks, trendy shops, and world-class restaurants. Visit the Larcomar, a shopping center built into the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where you can enjoy stunning views while shopping for souvenirs. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a cevicheria, sampling Peru's famous ceviche. In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk along the beachfront promenade, enjoying the coastal breeze. As the evening sets in, visit the vibrant district of Barranco once again for a memorable dinner and live music.
While exploring Peru, make sure to discover the hidden gems and local favorites. In Lima, visit the bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, filled with art galleries, charming cafes, and colorful street murals. Take a walk along the Malecon de Miraflores to Parque del Amor, a park dedicated to love, and enjoy stunning views of the coastline. In Cusco, explore the vibrant San Blas neighborhood, known for its artistic community and artisan workshops. Don't miss out on trying local Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado and anticuchos, which can be found in local markets and traditional restaurants.
Check hotel and flight prices here