The Perfect Peru Itinerary

Many people might not know how vast and diverse Peru is, and how it could be overwhelming planning out a Peru trip.

By indulging in a month-long immersive journey through the mystic landscapes of Peru, I have become armed with tales of my rich experiences and unique insights of the country. Encompassing the serene heights of the Andes, the lush green of the Amazon, the surreal beauty of Huacachina, and the historic charm of Lima, my Peru itinerary was a mosaic of diverse experiences.

Drawing from my first-hand knowledge, as well as input from a fellow travel blogger who has traveled extensively in the country, we are here to guide you in crafting the perfect Peru itinerary that caters to your unique interests and preferences:

1. Lima

As per a lot of travelers, my Peru journey started in Lima in the Miraflores district.

To fully immerse yourself in the city, embark on a bike tour that will unveil its hidden gems. This enchanting journey will allow you to discover the following sights:

• Barranco district, popular among artists and bohemians
• The Historic center of Lima,
• Plaza Mayor (Main Square)
• San Francisco Church with its famous catacombs
• the Lover’s Park, a romantic spot with beautiful views of the coast
• Larcomar mall, the perfect place for souvenir shopping.

Lima is home to the most expensive and exquisite restaurants in the world, Central Restuarant and the Kjolle. It’s crucial to keep in mind that reserving a table well in advance, preferably months ahead, is a must, unless you happen to strike luck and secure availability just a week before visit like me.

Fun fact: did you know that Lima is the second driest city in the world after Cairo? Yes, it’s true!

2. Paracas

Situated just a 3-hour drive south of Lima, Paracas is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s a hidden gem rich in both natural beauty and wildlife. It’s best known for the Paracas National Reserve, a protected area sprawling over 335,000 hectares, housing a diverse range of desert and marine ecosystems.

Having a car is highly advantageous for transportation, as it eliminates the reliance on purchasing tours or taking taxis. Because once you’re in Paracas city, visiting the National Park or moving around requires either booking a tour or paying for a taxi. Having your own car proves to be a more cost-effective option, saving you from frequent transportation expenses!

The tour that I did and would suggest doing is visiting the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Galapagos’, due to its abundant wildlife including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a myriad of bird species.

3. Huacachina

Tucked between sand dunes in the Ica desert, Huacachina is an absolute must-visit.

One of the things that make Huacachina so memorable is the spectacular sunset. Picture the golden sun sinking into the vast desert landscape, casting an ethereal glow over the tranquil oasis. It’s a sight that will stay etched in your memory long after your trip.

But it’s not just about the picturesque views. The real fun in Huacachina lies in the adrenaline-pumping activities you can embark on. Get ready for an exhilarating buggy ride that sends you flying over the sand dunes at heart-stopping speeds. Then, strap on a board for some epic sandboarding down the vast dunes. Zooming down those steep sandy slopes is a thrill like no other!

To get there, take a bus from Lima to Ica and then a taxi to Huacachina. Read the full Huacachina guide here.

4. Nazca

Nazca, a small desert town, carries a profound historical significance that’s bound to captivate every history enthusiast. The primary attraction of Nazca is its enigmatic Nazca Lines – a group of pre-Columbian geoglyphs etched into the desert sands.

The Nazca Lines are a collection of over 800 straight lines, 300 geometric patterns, and 70 animal and plant designs, also known as biomorphs. Some of the iconic drawings include the monkey, hummingbird, spider, and condor.

They span across a vast desert plateau between the towns of Nazca and Palpa and cover an area of about 450 square kilometers. These lines, created between 500 BC and 500 AD, have stood the test of time, remaining intact for over 2000 years, primarily due to the region’s dry, windless, and stable climate.

To fully appreciate these monumental creations’ size and complexity, it’s recommended to view them from above. Tourist flights provide an aerial perspective, offering a unique opportunity to witness the grandeur of these ancient drawings in all their glory.

The purpose of the Nazca Lines remains a mystery that adds to their allure. While some theorize that they’re related to astronomical or calendrical purposes, others suggest they might have been ritual pathways.

Visiting Nazca will not only add a touch of history and mystery to your Peru itinerary but will also provide a unique experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

USEFUL TIP: If you have a weak stomach, it’s best to avoid taking the turbulent flight.

5. Arequipa

Arequipa, often fondly referred to as the ‘White City’ due to its gorgeous sillar-stone architecture is renowned for its charming colonial buildings, vibrant local markets, and mouthwatering cuisine. Despite spending only a day here, I was so taken by Arequipa’s beauty and charm that I found myself wishing I could stay longer.

One of the highlights of my brief visit was the breathtaking sunset witnessed from the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky was painted with hues of gold and purple, casting a warm glow on the stunning white architecture that framed the plaza.

This captivating spectacle seemed to breathe a new life into the city, making Arequipa’s beauty even more poignant.

6. Colca Canyon

A gem nestled in the Peruvian Andes, Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and a must-include in your Peru itinerary. The canyon is home to the majestic Andean Condor, a sight that you cannot miss.

Hiking is popular in Colca Canyon, with trails ranging from a day to multi-day hikes into the canyon depths. The highlight for many is reaching the ‘Oasis’ – a green haven with natural pools to refresh after the strenuous descent. Keep in mind that you have to climb back up!

For a safer hiking experience, it is important to avoid going alone. I remember a few days later than my hike a girl had gone missing and tragically been found deceased in the canyon.

7. Lake Titicaca

Though I did not personally visit Lake Titicaca, it’s on the list because it’s one of the more common stops on most Peru itineraries. I’ve heard mixed reviews to be honest. Some people say that it’s quite touristy and others say that it is quite spiritual. My guess is that if you’re really looking hard for a spiritual experience, you can find it there. The lake is huge, after all. From here you can head south into Bolivia over the water. This is something I would like to try in the future. You can read more about Lake Titicaca on this blog.

8. Cusco

Situated at an altitude of 3,400 meters, the vibrant city of Cusco is a treasure chest of history, culture, and adventure.

Cusco offers an intriguing blend of Incan and Spanish architecture, fascinating museums, flavorful Peruvian cuisine, and a lively artisan scene.

A notable highlight is the renowned Sacred Valley.

Here, you can explore the enchanting Pisac market, teeming with colorful Andean textiles and handmade crafts. For thrill-seekers, an unforgettable night awaits in the transparent glass capsules suspended on the valley cliffside, offering panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape.

Further along, experience a different side of the valley at the ancient Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of evaporative salt pools dot the hillside.

The town of Urubamba, the starting point for the iconic Inca Trail and gateway to Machu Picchu, is also part of this valley.

With its lofty altitude, acclimation to Cusco can be challenging. It’s essential to allow a few days to adjust, stay hydrated, and take it easy to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through this unforgettable high-altitude city. Read the full Cusco guide here.

9. Rainbow Mountain

Also known as Vinicunca, this natural wonder gets its name from the stunning multicolored stripes that adorn its slopes, reminiscent of a vibrant rainbow.

The journey to Rainbow Mountain is a challenging one, pushing your endurance to the limit. The hike is strenuous, primarily due to the high-altitude setting of over 5,200 meters. The thin air at such an altitude can make breathing difficult and walking up the steep inclines feels tougher than usual.

However, the arduous journey is worth every bit of the effort when you reach the summit. The sight that greets you is nothing short of spectacular, with the mountain’s vividly colored stripes stretching out against a backdrop of the clear blue sky, creating a view that’s simply out of this world.

USEFUL TIP: To help combat the effects of the high altitude, keep some coca candies or coca leaves with you. Chewing on these can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, making the hike more manageable.

 Read more about how to do Rainbow Mountain the right way here.

10. Cordillera Blanca

Though the whole country truly is beautiful, the Cordillera Blanca mountain range might be the crown jewel of Peru. It’s not nearly as popular as Cusco and Machu Picchu of course, but there are several hikes, and mountain tops, and incredible lagoons in shades of blue that are hard to believe even when you’re staring at them with your own eyes, that all make a visit worth it. I did the Laguna 69 and Santa Cruz hikes there and both were fantastic. I can’t wait to go back and do Huayhuash!

Access via Huaraz from a stop in Lima. The bus ride takes 9-10 hours, which you can either do overnight or during the day.

11. The Amazon

Over 60% of Peru is covered by the Amazon Rainforest, so you really can’t visit Peru and feel like you’ve seen it unless you get a taste of this jungle. 

During my five days staying out in an off the grid ecolodge in the jungle, I saw nine sloths, pink river dolphins, went swimming in the alkaline water which honestly felt like a day spa, and got to canoe all in and around the mangroves. If crossing in from Columbia or Ecuador, one could traverse through the Amazon to get into Peru as well.

Iquitos is the perfect jumping off point for this adventure, which you will need to either boat or fly into, as no roads lead into it. You can read a lot more details about how to visit the Amazon here.

Getting Around Peru:

The easiest way to get around Peru is either by flying with one of the country’s regional airlines, or by taking buses. The buses in South America generally can be pretty nice with fully-reclining seats, depending on the company. Cruz del Sur is widely regarded as the best company in terms of service and the quality of the buses, though it is slightly more expensive than the rest. This is the method that I used to get from Lima to Huaraz and back. For the rest of the time, I either flew or had private transport as part of the BMTM Adventures tour.

If you’re not on a tour, I recommend the methods listed above. There is also a company called Peru Hop which services backpackers with slightly nicer buses, and they make it a bit easier if your Spanish is lacking. However if you can speak even a little bit, I recommend going the independent route as it is much cheaper. You can read more about how to get around, what the accommodation and food is like, and how to stay connected in my Peru guide.

Though this is by no means an exhaustive list of all of the places in Peru, it can get you started on planning the ideal itinerary. I didn’t know before going how incredibly diverse this country would turn out to be, and how interested I would be in returning again and again.

Peru, I’ll be back and that’s a guarantee.

About the co-author: Giorgy is the co-founder of Sabiduri. She is on a mission to empower every person to self-discover their inner power. She also help people to plan their spiritual adventures and go deep into their souls.