Peru Highlights in 10 Days – Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
- Cusco
- Santa Teresa
- Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu
- Cusco
Moderate
Diary
Group/ private
All years
Overview
Discover the most iconic destinations of Peru in just 10 unforgettable days. From the vibrant capital city of Lima to the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu, the colorful landscapes of Rainbow Mountain, and the peaceful beauty of Lake Titicaca, this adventure blends cultural richness with breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you’re exploring ancient Inca cities, gliding through the Ballestas Islands, or connecting with local communities on Amantani Island, each moment offers a deep connection to Peru’s heart and heritage.
This 10-day Peru itinerary is perfect for travelers looking to experience the best of the coast, highlands, and Andean culture. With carefully selected activities, comfortable accommodations, and expert guides, you’ll explore Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Puno, and Lake Titicaca without missing a single highlight. Let Peru surprise you with its magic, flavors, and unforgettable landscapes.
Peru Highlights in 10 Days – Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
The Peru Highlights in 10 Days is a perfectly designed itinerary for travelers who want to experience the highlights of Peru from the coast to the Andes. This journey combines history, nature, and living culture in an unforgettable experience. You’ll start your adventure in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, exploring colonial architecture and coastal views. From there, you’ll travel south to visit the marine wildlife of the Ballestas Islands and the surreal desert oasis of Huacachina.
Flying to Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire, you’ll continue with guided tours to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain. Then, the route takes you along the scenic Sun Route to Puno, where you’ll discover the traditions of the Uros, Amantani, and Taquile islands on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. This tour offers a rich balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation—perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Peru.
Tour Details:
- Tour Name: Best of Peru in 10 Days
- Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
- Start Location: Lima – Jorge Chávez International Airport
- End Location: Juliaca Airport, Puno
- Tour Type: Guided cultural tour + adventure + nature
- Group Size: Small group (2–15 travelers) or private
- Tour Style: Cultural, Historical, Soft Adventure, Scenic
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (some walking & high altitude)
- Best Time to Travel: March to December (dry season preferred)
- Minimum Age: 8+ years old (children must be accompanied by adults)
This 10-day journey combines Peru’s top destinations—from coastal wonders like the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis, to the Andes and Inca heartland of Cusco,
Highlights
- Discover the vibrant contrasts of Lima, from its colonial architecture to the modern district of Miraflores during a guided city tour.
- Sail to the stunning Ballestas Islands and witness sea lions, penguins, and countless seabirds in their natural habitat.
- Experience the thrill of sandboarding and dune buggy riding in the surreal Huacachina Oasis.
- Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines, one of the world’s greatest archaeological enigmas.
- Immerse yourself in the rich culture and altitude of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire.
- Explore the Sacred Valley, visit Ollantaytambo ruins, and enjoy a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes.
- Marvel at the majestic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, with a guided tour.
- Hike the colorful Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and take in its breathtaking high-altitude landscapes.
- Travel along the Route of the Sun from Cusco to Puno, stopping at fascinating Andean villages and Inca temples.
- Navigate the magical waters of Lake Titicaca, visiting the floating Uros Islands, Amantani, and Taquile—home to ancient traditions and warm-hearted locals.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Arrival in Lima – City Tour
Arrive in Peru’s capital and enjoy a guided city tour exploring Lima’s historic center and coastal districts.
Day 2: Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Oasis Tour
Travel to Paracas to visit the Ballestas Islands by boat, then head to the Huacachina desert for sandboarding and dune buggy adventures.
Day 3: Lima to Cusco – City Tour Cusco
Fly to the Andes and explore Cusco’s rich Inca and colonial heritage with an afternoon walking tour.
Day 4: Sacred Valley – Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and local markets in the Sacred Valley before taking the train to Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour
Enjoy a guided visit to the majestic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Return to Cusco.
Day 6: Rainbow Mountain Full-Day Tour
Embark on an early morning hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and witness the breathtaking colors of this natural wonder.
Day 7: Sun Route to Puno – Overnight in Puno
Scenic bus journey along the Ruta del Sol with cultural stops in Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, and Pukara. Overnight in Puno.
Day 8: Uros & Amantani Islands Tour – Homestay on Amantani
Boat trip to the floating Uros Islands and overnight cultural experience with a local family on Amantani Island.
Day 9: Taquile Island Tour – Return to Puno
Visit Taquile Island and explore its terraced landscapes, traditional textiles, and community life. Return to Puno.
Day 10: Transfer to Juliaca Airport
After breakfast, transfer to Juliaca Airport for your outbound flight or next destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Lima – City Tour
Upon your arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a guided city tour through Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll visit landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the San Francisco Monastery with its impressive catacombs. End the day in the vibrant Miraflores district overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Overnight in Lima.
Day 2: Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Oasis Tour
Early in the morning, travel south along the coast to Paracas. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, penguins, and diverse seabirds. Marvel at the mysterious «Candelabra» geoglyph etched into the hillside. After the tour, continue to the Huacachina Oasis, a desert paradise surrounded by towering sand dunes. Experience an adrenaline-pumping dune buggy ride and try your hand at sandboarding. Return to your hotel in Ica or Nazca
Day 3: Lima to Cusco – City Tour Cusco
Fly from Lima to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. After hotel check-in and a brief rest to adjust to the altitude, enjoy an afternoon city tour. Explore Cusco Cathedral, Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), and the nearby archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of this fascinating Andean city. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 4: Sacred Valley – Overnight in Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit the colorful Pisac Market and the impressive Pisac archaeological site. Continue to Urubamba for lunch, then explore the fortress of Ollantaytambo, a key military, religious, and agricultural center during the Inca Empire. In the evening, board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Full-Day Tour – Return to Cusco
Early morning, take the bus up to Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel. Enjoy a guided tour of its terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas, learning about its history and spiritual significance. After exploring the site, return by bus to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 6: Rainbow Mountain Full-Day Tour
Begin your day with an early departure to the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), located at 5,200 meters (17,060 ft) above sea level. After a scenic 3-hour drive, hike through the high Andes while witnessing stunning views of snow-capped peaks, herds of alpacas, and colorful landscapes. Upon reaching the summit, marvel at the natural beauty of this multicolored mountain. After the descent, enjoy a well-earned lunch before returning to Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 7: Sun Route to Puno – Overnight in Puno
Today, take a scenic bus ride through the Ruta del Sol (Sun Route) from Cusco to Puno. Stop at various cultural and archaeological sites including Andahuaylillas Church, Raqchi (Temple of Wiracocha), La Raya Pass, and Pukara Museum. Enjoy lunch along the way and arrive in Puno in the evening. Overnight in Puno.
Day 8: Uros & Amantani Islands Tour – Homestay
In the morning, embark on a boat tour of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. First, visit the Uros Floating Islands, where local families live on handmade reed platforms. Then continue to Amantani Island, where you’ll stay with a local family for an authentic cultural exchange. Participate in traditional cooking and dance activities. Overnight on Amantani Island.
Day 9: Taquile Island Tour – Return to Puno
After breakfast, continue by boat to Taquile Island, known for its spectacular scenery and unique textile traditions. Explore the island, interact with locals, and enjoy a traditional lunch with panoramic views of Lake Titicaca. In the afternoon, return to Puno and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Puno.
Day 10: Transfer to Juliaca Airport
After breakfast, transfer from your hotel in Puno to Juliaca Airport for your flight back to Lima or your next destination. End of the tour.
What’s Included
IN LIMA:
- Private transfer from the airport to your hotel.
- 2 nights of hotel accommodation with breakfast.
- Guided Lima City Tour with professional bilingual guide.
IN ICA, PARACAS:
- Tourist transportation for all tours.
- Professional tour guide during all activities.
- Ballestas Islands boat tour with life vest.
- Wine, Pisco, and artisanal chocolate tasting.
- Dune buggy ride and sandboarding in Huacachina.
IN CUSCO:
- Private transfer from the airport to your hotel.
- 3 nights of hotel accommodation in Cusco.
- Breakfasts included at all hotels.
- Guided Cusco City Tour & Sacred Valley Tour.
- All ground transportation for tours in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
- Train ticket: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Bus ticket: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour in Machu Picchu.
- 1 night of hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
- Entrance to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
- Breakfast and lunch for the Rainbow Mountain tour.
- Walking stick for the hike.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
IN PUNO & LAKE TITICACA:
- Tourist bus from Cusco to Puno with guided stops (Sun Route).
- 2 nights of hotel accommodation in Puno with breakfast.
- Boat tour on Lake Titicaca: Uros, Amantani, and Taquile Islands.
- 1 night family homestay on Amantani Island.
- Local guide and cultural exchange experience.
- 01 lunch, 1 dinner.
- Return boat to Puno.
- Transfer from your hotel in Puno to Juliaca Airport.
What’s Not Included
- Domestic flights: Lima – Cusco / Cusco – Juliaca (can be arranged upon request).
- Meals not specified in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees not explicitly mentioned.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and staff.
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
- Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, or souvenirs.
What to Bring for the IPeru Highlights in 10 Days
To fully enjoy your Best of Peru in 10 Days, it’s important to pack smart. You’ll experience coastal cities, desert landscapes, and high-altitude mountain trails, so be prepared for changing weather and terrain.
Essential Items
- Passport (and copies)
- Travel insurance information
- Personal medications & first aid kit
- Credit/debit cards & some cash (Peruvian soles)
- Daypack (comfortable for tours and short hikes)
Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots
- Lightweight clothing for Lima and Paracas (t-shirts, shorts)
- Warm layers for Cusco and the Andes (fleece or down jacket, thermal layers)
- Waterproof jacket or poncho (especially for rainy season)
- Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Swimsuit (for Huacachina or hotel pools)
- Sleepwear and undergarments
Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Shampoo/conditioner (small bottles)
- Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent (especially for Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu)
Electronics & Extras
- Phone, camera, and chargers
- Power adapter (Peru uses 220V, type A/B/C outlets)
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks and energy bars for long days
- Travel journal or guidebook
This list ensures you’re prepared for the highlights of Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain. Dress in layers and travel light—you’ll thank yourself later!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Peru Highlights in 10 Days
What is the altitude in Cusco and Lake Titicaca?
Cusco sits at approximately 3,400 meters (11,155 ft) above sea level, while Lake Titicaca is even higher, at around 3,812 meters (12,507 ft). Most travelers will feel some effects of the altitude upon arrival, including mild headaches or shortness of breath. We recommend taking it easy on your first day, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy meals or alcohol until your body adjusts. Coca tea is also commonly offered to help with symptoms.
Is acclimatization time included in the itinerary?
Yes. The itinerary is designed to help you gradually adapt to higher altitudes. You’ll start in Lima at sea level, and only travel to Cusco on Day 3. The first day in Cusco includes a light city tour to ease your transition. This structure helps minimize the risk of altitude sickness before your major adventures in Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
How physically demanding is this 10-day tour?
This tour is considered easy to moderate. While most activities involve sightseeing and cultural visits, there are some physically active days—such as the Rainbow Mountain hike and walking around Machu Picchu. These require a moderate level of fitness, but no technical skills. All tours are led at a comfortable pace, and optional assistance (like horse rentals for Rainbow Mountain) is available for those who need it.
What type of accommodation is included?
We include comfortable 3-star hotels in central locations for a pleasant and safe stay. Each room comes with private bathrooms, hot water, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. In Nazca and Puno, you’ll stay in clean, locally owned hotels. During the Amantani island experience, accommodations are basic but authentic, staying with a host family to better understand local life and culture.
Can I upgrade hotels or train services?
Absolutely. If you’d like to upgrade your accommodation to 4- or 5-star hotels or take the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham luxury train to Machu Picchu, we can customize the tour based on your preferences and budget. Let us know at the time of booking, and we’ll provide the best upgrade options.
What should I pack for this trip?
Due to Peru’s varied climates, you’ll need a mix of warm, breathable, and waterproof clothing. Essentials include: light layers for Lima and Cusco, a rain jacket, hiking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and a small daypack. For Lake Titicaca and Rainbow Mountain, be sure to bring warm layers as mornings and evenings are quite cold.
Are international and domestic flights included?
International and domestic flights are not included in the base price of the tour. However, we are happy to help you book your flights from Lima to Cusco and vice versa. Flight prices vary depending on the time of year and airline, so we offer flexibility by letting you choose the most convenient options.
💲Prices – Peru Highlights in 10 Days
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