Ultimate 3-Week Adventure and Culture Tour in Peru: Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Lake Titicaca, Nazca, and Northern Peru Highlights

Day 1: Arrival and Lima Exploration

Lima, Peru on August 1, 2025

9:00am

Arrive in Lima

Fly into Lima's Jorge Chavez International Airport and transfer to your accommodation to rest and acclimate.

USD0, 1h0m

11:00am

Breakfast at La Lucha Sanguchería

Enjoy a hearty Peruvian breakfast sandwich and fresh coffee at this favorite local spot in Miraflores.

USD8, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lima Historic City Tour

Visit Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral, San Francisco Monastery, and stroll the colonial streets to immerse yourself in Lima’s rich history.

USD20, 3h0m

4:00pm

Larco Museum

Explore Peru's pre-Columbian history with an impressive collection of artifacts and ceramics in a beautiful mansion.

USD12, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Central

Reserve a table at Central, ranked among the world’s best restaurants, to experience innovative Peruvian cuisine.

USD100, 2h0m

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Day 2: Nazca Lines Tour

Nazca, Peru on August 2, 2025

6:00am

Travel Lima to Nazca

Take an early bus (approx. 7h) or a short flight to Nazca in southern Peru to view the famous Nazca Lines.

USD40, 7h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at La Encantada

Enjoy traditional Peruvian dishes with local flavors in this cozy restaurant near the Nazca airport.

USD15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Nazca Lines Flight Tour

Take a 30-minute small plane flight to see the mysterious and best-preserved geoglyphs from above. Flights operate till late afternoon.

USD70, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Alex Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood and local dishes perfect for relaxing after an adventurous day.

USD20, 1h30m

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Day 3: Travel to Arequipa

Arequipa, Peru on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Travel Nazca to Arequipa

Morning bus ride ( approx. 9h) or shared transfer to Arequipa, known as the ‘White City’ for its beautiful colonial architecture.

USD30, 9h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at ZigZag

Dine on wonderfully prepared alpaca steaks and local Arequipa cuisine in an atmospheric setting.

USD25, 1h30m

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Day 4: Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Arequipa and Colca Canyon, Peru on August 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Café Mistura

Enjoy a quality breakfast with coffee and fresh juices in Arequipa’s city center.

USD10, 1h0m

8:00am

Day trip to Colca Canyon

Drive 3-4 hours to visit Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, famous for condor sightings and stunning scenery.

USD50, 8h0m

5:00pm

Return to Arequipa

Relax after the day's adventures and stroll in Arequipa’s main plaza.

USD0, 1h0m

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Day 5: Travel to Puno & Lake Titicaca

Puno, Peru on August 5, 2025

7:00am

Travel Arequipa to Puno

Take a morning bus or shared transfer to Puno (approx. 6h), gateway to Lake Titicaca.

USD20, 6h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Mojsa Restaurante

Try local specialties such as trout from Lake Titicaca in a lively setting.

USD15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Evening walk along Lake Titicaca

Enjoy stunning lake views and sunset from the piers and promenade of Puno.

USD0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Balcones de Puno

Experience delicious local Peruvian fare with great lake views at night.

USD20, 1h30m

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Day 6: Lake Titicaca Floating Islands

Lake Titicaca, Peru on August 6, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation to start your day.

Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Full-day tour to Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island

Visit traditional reed islands on Lake Titicaca and Taquile Island to learn about indigenous cultures and admire lake views. Tours usually last around 7-8 hours.

USD50, 8h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at La Casona Restaurant

Relax with hearty local dishes and Puno's friendly atmosphere.

USD18, 1h30m

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Day 7: Travel to Cusco

Cusco, Peru on August 7, 2025

8:00am

Travel Puno to Cusco

Take a comfortable tourist bus (approx. 7h) or train options to reach Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire.

USD40, 7h0m

3:30pm

Check-in and rest

Get settled in Cusco and start acclimatizing to high altitude.

USD0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Light dinner at Green Point

Relax with healthy, vegetarian-friendly food to assist acclimatization.

USD15, 1h0m

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Day 8: Cusco City Tour & Sacsayhuaman

Cusco, Peru on August 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jack’s Café

Enjoy an energizing breakfast in this popular spot loved by travelers and locals.

USD10, 1h0m

9:00am

Cusco City and Ruins Tour

Explore the Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha temple, San Pedro Market and nearby ruins like Sacsayhuaman, learning about Incan culture.

USD40, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Pachapapa

Sample traditional Andean dishes served in a charming courtyard.

USD15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Free afternoon for acclimation or exploring artisan markets

Relax or browse local handicrafts and textiles in the surrounding markets.

USD0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Limo Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar

Dine on ceviche and other Peruvian favorites with fantastic city views.

USD30, 1h30m

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Day 9: Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Cusco Region, Peru on August 9, 2025

4:00am

Early departure for Rainbow Mountain trek

Embark on a 6-7 hour guided hike to the colorful Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), starting early to avoid crowds and enjoy morning light.

USD40, 10h0m

3:00pm

Return to Cusco

Rest after the challenging but rewarding day hike.

USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Morena Peruvian Kitchen

Replenish energy with wholesome Peruvian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

USD20, 1h30m

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Day 10: Machu Picchu Exploration

Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, Peru on August 10, 2025

5:30am

Train to Aguas Calientes

Depart early by train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

USD70, 3h0m

9:00am

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Explore the magnificent Incan citadel with a certified guide for 2-3 hours, learning about its history and architecture.

USD50, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Indio Feliz

Enjoy a variety of local and international dishes in the town of Aguas Calientes.

USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Optional hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

If you're up for it, hike one of the peaks for spectacular views. Note permits must be booked in advance.

USD12, 3h0m

5:30pm

Return train to Cusco

Travel back to Cusco to rest for the next day of travel.

USD70, 3h0m

9:00pm

Light dinner in Cusco

Grab a light meal or snack in Cusco to end the day.

USD10, 1h0m

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Day 11: Travel to Northern Peru

Chachapoyas, Peru on August 11, 2025

8:00am

Flight Cusco to Lima, then Lima to Chachapoyas

Fly back to Lima early morning, then connect to a regional flight to Jaén or other nearby airport, followed by ground transfer to Chachapoyas.

USD150, 5h0m

3:00pm

Check into accommodations

Settle into your hotel or at Zoila's Suite Escape if coordinating arrival in Northern Peru region.

USD0, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at local restaurant

Try northern Peruvian specialties such as juane or cecina at a nearby eatery.

USD12, 1h30m

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Day 12: Gocta Waterfall Visit

Chachapoyas, Peru on August 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to prepare for a day of hiking.

Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Hike to Gocta Waterfall

Trek approximately 6 km round-trip to one of the tallest waterfalls in the world located in a lush jungle setting; hike takes around 3-4 hours total.

USD10, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local lodge near Gocta

Enjoy local dishes and refreshments with views of the tropical forest.

USD12, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return to Chachapoyas

Travel back to town and relax or explore local markets.

USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Zoila's suite Escape

Enjoy a home-cooked meal with your friends’ hospitality at their hotel.

Included, 1h30m

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Day 13: Kuelap Fortress Excursion

Kuelap, Peru on August 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Zoila's Suite Escape

Fuel up for a long day exploring ancient ruins.

Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Visit Kuelap Archaeological Site

Explore the massive pre-Incan stone fortress of Kuelap, dating back to 6th century AD, via cable car and guided tour; the site is open from 8am to 5pm.

USD20, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Kuelap Area Café

Refresh with traditional dishes and light refreshments near the site.

USD12, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return to Chachapoyas

Relax in the afternoon after a culturally rich day.

USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at local restaurant

Sample regional cuisine or enjoy another meal with friends at their hotel.

USD15, 1h30m

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Day 14: Explore Northern Peru Cultural Sites

Chachapoyas Region, Peru on August 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Zoila's Suite Escape

Start the day with a delicious meal prepared by your hosts.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Revash Mausoleums and Karajia Sarcophagi

Tour these fascinating Chachapoyan burial sites carved into cliffs and hilltops offering cultural insights and dramatic viewpoints.

USD15, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch in Leymebamba

Enjoy a peaceful lunch in the nearby town with traditional dishes.

USD12, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Leymebamba Museum

Explore this museum with a rich collection of Chachapoyan mummies and artifacts, open daily till 5pm.

USD5, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to Chachapoyas

Relax and prepare for next day’s travel.

USD0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Zoila’s Suite Escape

Enjoy a final dinner with friends featuring local delicacies.

Included, 1h30m

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Day 15: Fly Back to Lima from Northern Peru

Lima, Peru on August 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a relaxing breakfast before departure.

Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Transfer to airport

Travel to Jaén or Chiclayo Airport for your flight to Lima.

USD10, 1h0m

11:30am

Flight to Lima

Fly back to Lima (approx. 1.5-2h flight).

USD80, 2h0m

2:00pm

Check-in and rest in Lima

Drop off luggage and refresh after your travel.

USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Maido

Celebratory dinner at one of Lima's best Nikkei cuisine restaurants, combining Japanese and Peruvian flavors.

USD90, 2h0m

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Day 16: Northern Coast Adventure: Trujillo & Huanchaco

Trujillo, Peru on August 16, 2025

7:00am

Early morning flight Lima to Trujillo

Fly to northern coastal city of Trujillo to explore pre-Inca cultures and beaches.

USD60, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Café Libertad

Enjoy a quick breakfast at this popular café in Trujillo city center.

USD8, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Chan Chan Archaeological Complex

Tour the largest adobe city in the world, capital of the Chimu culture; open 8am-5pm.

USD10, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at El Mochica

Sample coastal seafood and traditional northern Peruvian dishes nearby.

USD15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Huanchaco Beach

Walk the beach famous for its traditional reed boats and surf culture, great place to unwind.

USD0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Catrina

Dine on creative northern Peruvian cuisine in a stylish setting.

USD20, 1h30m

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Day 17: Huaca del Sol & Luna & Local Markets

Trujillo, Peru on August 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quiet morning meal before your cultural visits.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna

Explore the two large Moche pyramids with murals and archeological significance. Open 8am-5pm.

USD10, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Mayta

Delight in eclectic Peruvian fusion dishes in Trujillo.

USD15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Trujillo Central Market

Browse fresh produce, spices, and local products for an authentic cultural experience.

USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to hotel and relax

Free time for resting or walking around town.

USD0, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Café Bar Casablanca

Finish the day with lovely views and dishes combining international and Peruvian tastes.

USD20, 1h30m

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Day 18: Chiclayo & Sipán Museum

Chiclayo, Peru on August 18, 2025

7:00am

Travel Trujillo to Chiclayo

Take a morning bus or private taxi to Chiclayo (approx. 3-4h).

USD15, 4h0m

11:30am

Visit Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán

Explore the museum dedicated to the Lord of Sipán, a famous Moche culture ruler with incredible artifacts; open 9am-5pm.

USD5, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at La Luna

Enjoy northern coastal seafood specialties in Chiclayo.

USD15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit the Pyramids of Túcume

Tour this archaeological complex with 26 major pyramids, the largest in Peru; open till late afternoon.

USD10, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at El Portón

Relax with local dishes and friendly atmosphere.

USD18, 1h30m

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Day 19: Flight Back to Lima

Lima, Peru on August 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Chiclayo

Enjoy one last great meal in northern Peru.

Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Transfer to Chiclayo Airport

Travel to airport for flight to Lima.

USD10, 1h0m

12:00pm

Flight Chiclayo to Lima

Fly back to Lima for final days of your trip.

USD70, 1h30m

2:00pm

Check-in and leisure

Relax in Lima and explore any missed popular sites or neighborhoods like Barranco.

USD0, 4h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rafael

Enjoy contemporary Peruvian cuisine in a stylish setting on your penultimate night.

USD60, 2h0m

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Day 20: Explore Barranco & Departure Prep

Lima, Peru on August 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tostaduria Bisetti

Start with excellent coffee and pastries in the artistic Barranco district.

USD8, 1h0m

9:30am

Barranco Walking Tour

Explore vibrant street art, quaint cafés, and the Puente de los Suspiros bridge in Barranco.

USD0, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Canta Rana

Savor fresh ceviche from a local favorite in Barranco.

USD15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Leisure and shopping

Visit local artisan shops and boutiques to buy souvenirs.

USD0, 3h0m

6:30pm

Farewell dinner at Astrid y Gastón

Conclude your Peru trip with gourmet dining from world-famous chefs.

USD90, 2h0m

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Day 21: Departure Day

Lima, Peru on August 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a final Peruvian breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the airport.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Transfer to Lima Airport

Travel to Jorge Chavez International Airport for your flight back to Phoenix or New York.

USD30, 1h0m

11:00am

Flight departure

Fly back home with wonderful memories of Peru.

Varies, Varies

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