Day 01: Welcome to Peru
Welcome to Lima.
Upon arrival in Lima, our representative will be waiting for you at the airport to transfer you to your hotel in Lima.
No additional services will be provided on this day unless specifically requested.
IMPORTANT: Please confirm your flight details (airline, flight number, and estimated arrival time) so we can arrange your airport transfer accordingly.
- Accommodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores or similar
- Meals: None
- Tickets: None
Day 02: Lima City Tour and Cooking Class
We begin the day with a 9:30 am pick-up from your hotel, setting out for a nearby local market. Here, your guide will introduce you to the fresh ingredients that will later be used to prepare some of Peru’s most delicious dishes, giving you a first taste of the country’s rich culinary culture.
From the market, we head to the kitchen, where our chef will share the secrets behind Peruvian cuisine. You’ll learn how to prepare one of Peru’s signature dishes, and if you’d like, you’re welcome to take part in the cooking process. Once the class is complete, you’ll sit down to enjoy the meal you helped create, accompanied by refreshing drinks.
After the cooking experience, we continue with a guided tour of downtown Lima. Our first stop is the Presidential Palace, followed by a walk through the city’s historic center, where modern life and colonial heritage blend seamlessly.
You’ll explore Lima’s Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Plaza Mayor (Main Square), surrounded by important landmarks such as the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop’s Palace. The tour also includes a visit to the San Francisco Monastery, where you’ll descend into its famous catacombs—an underground labyrinth filled with centuries-old human bones.
The experience continues at the Larco Museum, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts, including finely crafted pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Set within a beautiful colonial mansion surrounded by lush gardens, the museum offers a deeper insight into Peru’s ancient civilizations.
After a full and enriching day, we’ll return you to your hotel in Miraflores, where you’ll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.
- Accommodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores
- Meals: Lunch
- Ticktes: Included
Day 03: Flight to Cusco and City Tour.
This morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Lima and transfer you to the airport. Please book an early flight departing between 8:00 and 9:00 AM. Upon your arrival in Cusco, our guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You will have time for lunch before the tour begins.
Your Cusco City Tour begins with a hotel pick-up at 1:00 PM. The tour starts at the Main Plaza (Wakaypata), where you will explore the historic center, notable colonial architecture, and vibrant local life.
Next, visit the Cusco Cathedral, known for its religious paintings and Spanish Baroque architecture. The cathedral showcases the blend of indigenous and European influences in Cusco.
After the Cathedral, visit Qoricancha, once the most important temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. The site features a unique combination of Inca and Spanish architecture, with well-preserved walls and chambers reflecting Cusco’s ancient heritage.
Then, visit Sacsayhuaman, an ancient Inca fortress renowned for its massive stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons. Sacsayhuaman played a key role in Inca military and religious life and offers panoramic views of Cusco.
Next, visit Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay, three smaller Inca sites, each with unique features. Your guide will provide insights as you explore these ruins. Please bring your camera to capture the landscapes and archaeological sites.
As the tour concludes, visit a local alpaca farm, where you can observe alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos. Learn about traditional textile techniques and the importance of these animals in the region’s cultural heritage.
Finally, return to Cusco and arrive at your hotel by 6:00 PM, concluding a day rich in history and culture.
- Accommodation: Rumi Punko or Similar
- Ticket: Included
- Meals: only breakfast at Hotel
Day 04: Sacred Valley tour with overnight in Ollantaytambo
The tour begins with a hotel pick-up at 8 am. We will depart Cusco in private transportation and visit an alpaca farm, where you can observe all four species: llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and vicuñas. These animals played a significant role in our ancestors’ lives, and your guide will explain the differences between them.
We will then continue to Pisac, historically known as the capital of corn and potatoes. Depending on the season, you may see the farming area. At the Pisac Inca site, you will take a guided walking tour of the circular Andean terraces, rooms, and water fountains. As one of the largest Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, Pisac offers remarkable views. After the tour, we will return to Pisac town, where you can visit the local market. The market is traditional, with residents still practicing product exchange, and is an excellent place to purchase souvenirs.
Next, we will drive for about an hour to Urubamba for lunch. Afterward, we will travel another 30 minutes to Ollantaytambo, known as the last living Inca city. Here, you will have a guided tour of the archaeological site, which takes approximately one hour. You will then have time to explore the local village before your guide escorts you to your hotel.
- Accommodation: Sol Natura or similar.
- Ticket: Included
- Meals: breakfast and lunch
Day 05. Hike Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:45 am and take a short walk to the train station, where we’ll board the train to km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Upon arrival at the checkpoint, you’ll present your original passport and, if you wish, receive an official trail stamp. After a brief preparation, we’ll begin the hike.
Our first stop is the Chachabamba Inca site, where your guide will lead a guided tour and share its history and significance. From here, we continue along the trail, starting with a gradual uphill hike of approximately 3.5 hours. Along the way, we’ll take breaks to admire the scenery, take photos, and enjoy snacks. The trail winds through a lush cloud forest filled with orchids and hummingbirds, offering unforgettable views.
Next, we arrive at the impressive Wiñayhuayna Inca site, often called a “mini Machu Picchu.” You’ll explore this remarkable complex with your guide before stopping to enjoy a well-earned lunch.
After lunch, we continue hiking for about one more hour to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Arriving at Machu Picchu through this iconic entrance is a truly special experience. We usually reach the Sun Gate around 2:00 pm, giving you time to soak in the breathtaking afternoon views of the citadel and, with a bit of luck, witness a beautiful sunset.
From the Sun Gate, it’s an easy one-hour downhill walk to the Machu Picchu citadel. This section of the trail leads to the upper part of the site, offering some of the most spectacular panoramic views. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, take photos, and fully enjoy the majestic surroundings.
After the guided visit, we’ll take a bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into your hotel. Once settled, you’ll have time to relax and freshen up before enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
- Accommodation: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu *** or similar
- Tickets: Included
- Meals: breakfast – lunch and dinner
Day 06: Machu Picchu Guided Tour and back to Cusco
Today is the most important day of the journey. After an early breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you on one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll head to the upper section of the Inca citadel, where you may have the opportunity to witness the sunrise (depending on the season) and capture some of the most iconic photos of Machu Picchu. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the atmosphere and experience the magic of this New Wonder of the World.
After this unforgettable moment, your guided walking tour will begin and follows Circuit 3. Your guide will lead you through the most important sectors, temples, and palaces of Machu Picchu, sharing the history and stories behind this extraordinary site. The guided tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
Once the tour is complete, if you have a Huayna Picchu ticket, you’ll have the chance to hike this famous mountain. The hike takes about 2 hours round-trip and requires an advance reservation. If you don’t have a Huayna Picchu ticket, you’ll say goodbye to the Lost City of the Incas for now and take a bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes.
In Aguas Calientes, you’ll enjoy your final lunch with the group (lunch not included). Later in the afternoon, you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco. The approximate arrival time in Cusco is around 8:00 pm.
- Accommodation: Tierra Viva Hotels or Similar.
- Ticket: Included
- Meals: Only Breakfast at Hotel
Day 07. Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Hike
Get ready for an unforgettable day. Our guide will pick you up from your hotel at 4:00 am, and we’ll set off on a scenic three-hour drive toward the Rainbow Mountain trailhead. Along the way, we’ll stop to enjoy a hearty breakfast and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Upon arrival at the trailhead, located at 4,350 meters above sea level, we’ll take some time to prepare for the hike. Due to the high altitude, the climate can be cold and dry, so warm clothing is essential. The hike begins with a 4 km uphill trek that takes approximately 2.5 hours. As you make your way up, the spectacular mountain scenery will reward every step.
At the summit of Rainbow Mountain (Winikunka), standing at 5,150 meters above sea level, you’ll have time to admire the colorful landscape, take photos, and fully appreciate this incredible natural wonder.
After enjoying Rainbow Mountain, we’ll continue with a short hike to the nearby Red Valley, located just behind the mountain. Known for its deep red hues and sweeping panoramic views, this area offers a truly unique and memorable experience.
Once we’ve explored both sites, we’ll hike back to meet our driver. From there, we’ll enjoy a relaxing 50-minute drive to a local restaurant, where a well-deserved lunch awaits.
After lunch, we’ll continue the journey back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel. The approximate arrival time in Cusco is around 5:50 pm.
- Accommodation: Rumi Punko or Similar
- Ticket: Included
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 08: Journey to Puno - Sun Route.
Traveling from Cusco to Puno, both located in Peru’s highlands, is more than just a transfer—it’s a journey through the heart of the Andes. Many travelers choose the famous “Sun Route” (Ruta del Sol) to experience not only the road between these two cities, but also the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes that define this region of Peru.
The day begins early with a 6:20 am pick-up from your hotel, followed by a transfer to the bus station. This full-day journey includes several fascinating stops along the way. You’ll visit the beautiful Andahuaylillas Church, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” explore the impressive archaeological site of Raqchi, and pause at La Raya Pass, the highest point of the route, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The tour also includes a visit to the Lithic Museum of Pukara, offering insight into one of the region’s ancient cultures.
The journey concludes with your arrival in Puno at approximately 5:30 pm. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you’ll settle in for the night and prepare for the next part of your adventure.
Day 09: Lake Titicaca Tour Overnight with local family.
Lake Titicaca, straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia in the Andean Highlands, is one of South America’s largest lakes and the world’s highest navigable body of water. It is renowned for its deep blue waters and the floating Uros Islands, which are made from reeds. Tours to Lake Titicaca often focus on exploring its unique islands and interacting with the indigenous peoples who inhabit them.
Uros Islands:
Visit the remarkable floating islands, made entirely of totora reeds.
Learn about the Uros people, their traditions, and how they construct and maintain their floating islands.
Amantani Island:
Stay with a local family, providing a unique insight into daily life on the islands.
Explore archaeological sites and enjoy panoramic views from the island’s peaks.
- Accommodation: Overnight in Local family home
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Tickets: included
Day 10: Lake Titicaca Tour
You will have an early breakfast with the family and take a boat to the next island called Taquile. This island is known for its intricate and rich textile and weaving traditions and sustainable tourism practices. You will have the opportunity to walk around the island and enjoy a delicious lunch by the lake.
Explore the island known for its textile arts (recognized by UNESCO).
Engage with the local community, known for maintaining their traditional Andean customs.
Enjoy a traditional meal and perhaps purchase handmade textiles as souvenirs.
You will return to Puno around 3:30 p.m. for the rest of the afternoon free of activities.
- Accomodation: Tierra Viva Puno or Similar
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Ticket: All required
Journey back to Lima - Good bye.
Our representative will pick you up from your Puno Hotel 3 hours before your scheduled flight departure. You’ll then be transferred to the Juliaca airport (approximately 45 minutes from Puno). Please note that all travelers are required to check in at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure time for national flights.
IMPORTANT: Please confirm your flight departure details (airline, flight number, and estimated arrival time) so our team can arrange your airport transfer accordingly. Your Lima to Puerto Maldonado flight should ideally be in the morning hours.
- Accomodation: None
- Meals: only breakfast
- Tickets: None required
What to Pack for Your 10-Day Peru Travel Package: A Complete Guide
Here’s a comprehensive packing list for your 11-day adventure in Peru, ensuring you’re prepared for the variety of activities and environments you’ll encounter, from high-altitude treks to cultural tours:
Essential Documents & Travel Items:
- Original Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Flight tickets (both international and domestic)
- Travel insurance (make sure it covers trekking)
- Cash (in soles and USD), plus credit/debit cards
- Phone, charger, and power bank
- Camera and extra memory cards
- Reusable water bottle (to stay hydrated)
Clothing:
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking layers (for both warm and cool climates)
- T-shirts (quick-drying fabrics are best)
- Long-sleeve shirts (for sun protection)
- Lightweight pants and shorts
- Insulating layer (like a fleece jacket for colder evenings)
- Waterproof jacket or poncho (for unexpected rain)
- Warm jacket (especially for high-altitude areas like Rainbow Mountain)
- Hat (for sun protection)
- Warm hat (for cold nights in the mountains)
- Gloves (for chilly mornings in the mountains)
- Comfortable walking shoes (for city tours and sightseeing)
- Hiking boots (sturdy and waterproof, especially for Inca Trail)
- Socks (moisture-wicking and breathable)
- Sandals or flip-flops (for downtime or showers)
Accessories:
- Sunglasses (with UV protection)
- Sunblock (high SPF for high altitudes and sun exposure)
- Lip balm (with SPF)
- Insect repellent (especially for the inca trail and Machu picchu)
- Bandana or scarf (for dust, sun, or extra warmth)
- Travel pillow (for the flight or long bus rides)
Health & Safety:
- First-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister plasters)
- Prescription medications (enough for the entire trip, plus a copy of the prescription)
- Altitude sickness medication (discuss with your doctor if necessary)
- Hand sanitizer (for hygiene on the go)
- Wet wipes or tissues
- Personal hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
- Anti-diarrheal medication (just in case)
- Earplugs and eye mask (for better sleep on flights or buses)
- Water purification tablets (if you want extra peace of mind about drinking water)
For the Trekking Days (Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain):
- Daypack (for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen, 20 -30L)
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful for the Inca Trail, can be rent from us in Cusco)
- Blister prevention (comfy shoes and blister pads)
- Trail snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit)
- Sun hat (for the sun exposure during the hike)
- Camera (for capturing the landscapes along the trail)
- Wet weather gear (poncho or rain jacket for unexpected showers)
- Plastic bags (for wet or dirty clothes)
- Power bank (to keep your devices charged during the trek)
For Cultural Tours & City Days (Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca):
- Comfortable walking shoes (for city exploration)
- Camera or smartphone (for sightseeing and photos)
- Notebook and pen (to record interesting facts or impressions)
- Small travel pouch or money belt (for valuables when walking around cities)
- Local SIM card or international roaming plan (for easier communication)
- Lightweight scarf or shawl (to cover your shoulders when visiting temples)
Optional Items:
- Dry bags (to keep electronics or valuables dry, especially on the Inca Trail)
- Travel lock (for securing your bags)
- Notebook/Sketchbook (for journaling or drawing)
- Music playlist or book/e-reader (for downtime or long transfers)
Things to Keep in Mind:
Weather in Peru can vary drastically depending on the region and altitude. While Lima and the Sacred Valley are warmer, high-altitude areas like Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain can be quite cold, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Altitude: Be prepared for higher altitudes, especially if you plan to hike the Inca Trail or visit places like Rainbow Mountain and Lake Titicaca. Make sure to stay hydrated and take it easy when adjusting to the altitude.
Travel light: While you’ll need a variety of clothing, try to pack as lightly as possible, as you’ll be moving around a lot. Many hotels offer laundry services.
By preparing with the right gear and essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the natural beauty, history, and adventure that Peru has to offer. Have an incredible journey!