5 Best Peru Itineraries You Need to Consider

Peru is a land of contrasts: from the towering Andes mountains and lush Amazon jungle to the vibrant cities and ancient ruins that tell tales of civilizations past. At FlashpackerConnect, we've curated some of the best itineraries to showcase Peru’s incredible diversity, culture, and natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking an in-depth exploration or a quick yet immersive escape, here are the top five itineraries to help you discover Peru’s magic.

Pre Read Summary:

1. Cusco to the Andes - 7 Days in Peru
   • Perfect for: Travelers wanting a balanced mix of culture, history, and Andean landscapes in a one-week adventure.
2. Ultimate Peru - 13 Days
   • Perfect for: Those looking for an in-depth exploration of Peru’s top sites, from the Andes to the Amazon, over nearly two weeks.
3. 5 Days in Peru
   • Perfect for: Travelers with limited time who want to experience Peru’s highlights quickly but thoroughly.
4. Inca to the Andes - 7 Days in Peru
   • Perfect for: Hikers eager to trek the Andes and visit hidden Incan sites on less-traveled paths.
5. Bucket List Cusco - 4 Days
   • Perfect for: Short-trip travelers looking to check off Peru’s bucket-list highlights, including Machu Picchu, in just four days.

1. Cusco to the Andes - 7 Days in Peru

Perfect for: Adventurers seeking a well-rounded experience of Cusco’s highlights, Incan culture, and breathtaking Andean landscapes.

This week-long adventure is designed to give travelers a deep dive into the heart of Cusco and the surrounding Andes, filled with stunning scenery, cultural immersion, and unforgettable hikes. Start with a visit to Cusco, the historical capital of the Inca Empire, where cobblestone streets and colonial architecture mingle with traditional Andean culture.

Highlights of this itinerary include:

• Sacred Valley Exploration: Visit vibrant Andean villages, terraced agricultural landscapes, and bustling markets in the Sacred Valley, home to some of the region’s most iconic ruins, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
• Machu Picchu: This itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu. A sunrise hike to this mystical city in the clouds reveals why it’s a New Wonder of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Andean Peaks: Enjoy day hikes through the Andes, taking in views of snow-capped peaks and pristine high-altitude lakes.

This is a perfect one-week trip to sample Cusco's culture and natural wonders, with a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

2. Ultimate Peru - 13 Days

Perfect for: Travelers looking to experience the ultimate Peruvian adventure with in-depth exploration of the country’s top highlights.

For those who want a comprehensive experience, our “Ultimate Peru” itinerary covers it all in nearly two weeks, from Peru’s ancient history to its Amazonian biodiversity.

Key experiences include:

• Lima to Cusco: Begin in the culinary capital, Lima, then make your way to Cusco to start your journey into the Andes.
• Machu Picchu: Hike, trek, or take the scenic train route to Machu Picchu. Whether it’s a long-awaited bucket list adventure or a first-time visit, Machu Picchu never fails to inspire awe.
• Amazon Jungle Excursion: Spend a few days in the Amazon rainforest, staying in a jungle lodge and discovering the incredible diversity of Peru’s wildlife, from colorful macaws to capuchin monkeys.
• Lake Titicaca: Visit the world’s highest navigable lake, explore the floating islands of Uros, and learn about the culture and daily life of the lake’s indigenous communities.

The Ultimate Peru itinerary combines all the best of the country, from the dense rainforests and scenic lake views to the peaks and valleys of the Andes, all within a 13-day journey.

3. 5 Days in Peru

Perfect for: Travelers short on time who want to experience Peru’s major highlights efficiently.

This five-day itinerary is designed for those who want to cover the essentials without compromising on any of Peru’s most iconic experiences. Though it’s a shorter trip, the adventure packs in plenty of must-see sights and activities.

Itinerary highlights:

• Sacred Valley & Pisac: Experience the charm of the Sacred Valley and the colorful Pisac Market, where local artisans display vibrant textiles, jewelry, and other hand-made crafts.
• Machu Picchu: This itinerary allows for plenty of time to explore the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Wander through its iconic terraces, temples, and plazas with a knowledgeable guide who will unravel its mysteries and history.
• Cusco City Tour: Spend some time in Cusco’s historic center, visiting key sites like Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha. Get a taste of Andean culture in the lively markets and traditional neighborhoods.

This itinerary offers a whirlwind adventure, perfect for travelers who want to cover as much as possible in a short amount of time while still experiencing Peru’s magic.

4. Inca to the Andes - 7 Days in Peru

Perfect for: Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience the Andes’ high-altitude landscapes and hidden Incan ruins.

This itinerary takes travelers from the heart of Cusco to some of the Andes’ most beautiful locations, combining cultural exploration with thrilling trekking.

Key activities and highlights:

• Ausangate Trek: Trek the challenging Ausangate Circuit, a route renowned for its raw beauty, with views of glacier-capped peaks, highland lakes, and turquoise glacial waters. This trek is less visited, offering a serene experience and an intimate connection to the landscape.
• Rainbow Mountain: Conclude your Ausangate adventure with a visit to Vinicunca, the famous Rainbow Mountain. This colorful spectacle is a surreal sight and a must for any adventure seeker visiting the Andes.
• Local Immersion: Along the journey, you’ll pass by remote Andean villages, where local communities continue their traditional way of life, herding llamas and weaving vibrant textiles.

The Inca to the Andes itinerary is ideal for trekkers who want to experience less-frequented paths and a deeper connection with the Andean culture.

5. Bucket List Cusco - 4 Days

Perfect for: Short-trip travelers aiming to check off major bucket-list destinations with a focus on Cusco and its surroundings.

This quick yet impactful trip is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the essence of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.

Main itinerary highlights:

• Cusco’s Top Sights: Start with a guided tour of Cusco, including Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuamán, and local markets.
• Sacred Valley & Moray: Explore the Sacred Valley and the Incan ruins of Moray, known for its unique circular terraces believed to be an agricultural research station in Incan times.
• Machu Picchu Excursion: End the adventure with a trip to Machu Picchu. With a four-day timeline, this itinerary makes it possible to savor every moment without feeling rushed.

The Bucket List Cusco itinerary is compact, covering all the essentials in and around Cusco, making it a fantastic option for travelers who want to get a taste of Peru’s wonders on a shorter schedule.

Final Thoughts

These five itineraries offer a range of options, from comprehensive 13-day journeys to compact four-day escapes. Each route provides a unique experience of Peru’s landscapes, history, and cultural heritage, with a perfect balance of adventure and discovery. Whether you’re hiking to ancient ruins, exploring the Amazon rainforest, or wandering through the vibrant markets of Cusco, these FlashpackerConnect itineraries ensure you won’t miss a thing.

Book your next Peru adventure with us and experience this extraordinary country in a way that only FlashpackerConnect can deliver!