Full Itinerary for the Ultimate 10-Day Peru Adventure

Day 1: Welcome to Lima

You need to book a flight from your country to Lima Airport; upon your arrival in Lima, we will pick you up from the airport and drive you to your hotel in the vibrant district of Miraflores. This area is known for its stunning ocean views, beautiful parks, and excellent dining options. 

After settling into your room, you can take a leisurely hike along the Malecón, a scenic walkway overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants, sampling some of Peru's famous dishes.

• Meals: not Included
• Accommodation: Preferred hotel in Lima

Day 2: Lima City Tour

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before meeting your tour guide. You'll start your tour in the Colonial center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Plaza Mayor, where you'll see the grand Government Palace, the ornate Cathedral of Lima, and the Palace of the Archbishop. 

In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, a TreXperience representative will welcome you and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Spend the evening acclimatizing to the altitude and exploring the city's lively streets.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Preferred hotel in Cusco

Day 3: Cusco City Tour

After breakfast, your guide will take you on a tour of Cusco, starting at the San Pedro Market, where you can taste local fruits, cheeses, and pastries, and shop for handmade crafts. Next, explore the Plaza de Armas. Admire the impressive architecture and visit the Cathedral, known for its stunning altars and art from the Cusco School. Continue to the nearby 12-angle stone street, an example of the incredible stone masonry of the Incas. Walk along Loreto Street to see the ancient walls and visit Qoricancha, once the richest temple in the Inca Empire.

After lunch, continue your tour by visiting the impressive Sacsayhuamán fortress, known for its massive stone walls and amazing views of Cusco. Next, visit Qenqo, a ceremonial site with intricate carvings and tunnels. Then, head to Tambomachay, known as the "Bath of the Inca," with its aqueducts and waterfalls. Continue to Pucapucara, a military fortress that was a checkpoint on the Inca Trail. Finally, end your day at Cristo Blanco, a giant white statue of Christ that overlooks the city, offering breathtaking views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains.

• Duration: Full-day Tour
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Preferred hotel in Cusco

Day 4: Sacred Valley: Pisac, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo

Depart Cusco at 7:00 am and start your journey to the Sacred Valley. Your first stop is an alpaca farm, where you can interact with llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. Learn about these fascinating animals and their significance in Andean culture. Next, head to Taray's viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. Appreciate the breathtaking landscape, with its terraced hills and lush greenery.

Continue to the town of Pisac to explore its impressive archaeological site. Wander through the ancient ruins, marvel at the incredible Inca stonework, and learn about the site's historical significance. Afterward, visit Pisac's colorful market, where you can browse and purchase traditional handicrafts like colorful textiles, pottery, and jewelry. After a scenic drive through the valley, arrive in Urubamba for a delicious lunch. Enjoy a variety of Peruvian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients while taking in the picturesque surroundings.

After lunch, visit the circular terraces of Moray. These unique agricultural terraces were likely used by the Incas as a research center to experiment with different crops and growing conditions. The site's unusual design and purpose make it a fascinating stop on your tour. Next, see the ancient salt mines of Maras, where thousands of salt pools cascade down the mountainside. Learn about traditional salt extraction methods that have been used here for centuries and admire the stunning contrast of white salt against the red earth.

Finally, arrive in Ollantaytambo, a charming town with a rich Inca history. Explore the impressive fortress, which served as both a military stronghold and a religious center. Climb the terraces for a closer look at the massive stone structures and enjoy the views of the surrounding valley. Your guide will explain the strategic importance of Ollantaytambo during the Inca Empire and share fascinating stories about its past. As the day comes to an end, take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes passing by as you anticipate the adventures that await you in the days to come.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Preferred hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco

Wake up early and take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas. Watching the ancient citadel light up with the first rays of the sun is truly magical. Your guide will lead you on a detailed tour of the site, explaining the history and significance of its temples, terraces, and plazas. Learn about the Inca civilization and the architectural marvels that make Machu Picchu one of the world's most famous archaeological sites.

After the guided tour, you'll have time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. Wander through the ancient pathways or hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for stunning views of the surrounding area. These hikes offer a unique perspective of the site and are well worth the effort. Once you finish exploring Machu Picchu, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge Hotel.

You will return to Aguas Calientes, and later in the afternoon, you will board the Vistadome Panoramic Train back to Ollantaytambo, where you will transfer to a private van back to Cusco. Spend the evening relaxing and reflecting on your unforgettable day at Machu Picchu.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel & lunch at Machu Picchu
• Accommodation: Preferred hotel in Cusco

Day 6: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour

Today, embark on an early morning adventure to Rainbow Mountain. After a scenic 3-hour drive through the Andes, enjoy breakfast in a local community restaurant. Begin your hike to Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, marveling at its vibrant colors created by mineral deposits. The hike is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the Andean peaks.

At the summit, take time to soak in the panoramic views and capture photos. Afterward, explore the nearby Red Valley, known for its deep red soil and unique rock formations. Descend to the base for a well-deserved lunch prepared by the local community restaurant.

Relax on the drive back to Cusco, arriving in the early evening. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps exploring Cusco’s vibrant nightlife or simply resting after a rewarding day.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

Day 7: Raqchi & Puno

Depart Cusco early in the morning on a comfortable tourist bus. The scenic drive to Puno takes you through the stunning Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the landscape.

Your first stop is Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" for its beautiful and intricate murals. Admire the detailed artwork and learn about the church's history.

Continue your journey to the Raqchi Temple, an important Inca archaeological site. Explore the impressive ruins and learn about the site's historical significance from your guide. Next, visit the Lithic Museum of Pukara, where you can see a fascinating collection of pre-Inca artifacts, including stone sculptures and ceramics.

Arrive in Puno, situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca, and check into your hotel. Spend the evening relaxing and perhaps take a leisurely stroll around the city to enjoy the local culture and atmosphere.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Hotel in Puno

Day 8: Excursion on Lake Titicaca

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a boat excursion on Lake Titicaca. Your first stop is the Uros Floating Islands, unique islands made entirely of totora reeds. Learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Uros people as you explore the islands and interact with the locals.

Next, visit Taquile Island, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful textiles. Enjoy a traditional lunch on the island, featuring local dishes. After lunch, take some time to explore the island, hike to the main square for panoramic views, and appreciate the local artisans' work.

In the afternoon, return to Puno by boat, enjoying the scenic journey across Lake Titicaca. Arrive back in Puno and spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your leisure. Visit local markets or relax and soak in the local culture.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Hotel in Puno

Day 9: Travel to Colca Canyon

Depart Puno early in the morning and travel to Colca Canyon, passing through some of Peru's most breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you'll see towering volcanoes, terraced hillsides, and traditional Andean villages. 

Upon arrival in Colca, relax and enjoy the therapeutic thermal baths, soaking in the natural hot springs and unwinding after a day of travel.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Hotel in Colca

Day 10: Full Day in Colca Canyon

After breakfast, explore the depths of Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons. Begin your tour at the Mirador Cruz del Condor, where you can witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors as they soar above the canyon. 

Hike along the canyon's edge, taking in the stunning views of the Colca Valley, known for its terraced fields and picturesque villages. Learn about the local culture and history as you visit traditional communities and enjoy lunch. Return to Arequipa city in the afternoon. 

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Accommodation: Book a hotel in Arequipa or a flight to Lima