Peru is a country of contrasts, where you can see high peaks and deep valleys, sandy beaches and dry deserts, colonial cities and ancient ruins. The country has a rich history and culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and exploration. There are so many places to see and activities to do in Peru, and it can be difficult to decide where to go or what to do, especially if you have limited time. In this article, we will suggest an itinerary for ten days, which will allow you to discover the best of Peru in a week and a half.
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Your trip to Peru will begin in Lima, the capital city. After your arrival, take some time to rest and adjust to the altitude. Lima is a city with a rich history and culture, and a great way to start your trip is by taking a city tour. Visit the historic center of Lima, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will see beautiful colonial buildings, such as the Cathedral of Lima and the Government Palace.
Day 2-3: Paracas and Huacachina
On the second day, take a morning flight to Paracas. This is a small town located on the coast of Peru, famous for its beautiful beaches and the Paracas National Reserve. The reserve has a diverse wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and various species of birds. Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, where you can see sea lions, penguins, and other wildlife.
After the tour, head to Huacachina, which is located in the middle of a desert oasis. This picturesque town is surrounded by sand dunes and is a popular destination for sandboarding and dune buggy rides. Spend the night in Huacachina and wake up early to watch the sunrise over the sand dunes.
Day 4-6: Cusco and Machu Picchu
On the fourth day, take a flight from Lima to Cusco. Cusco is a beautiful colonial city located in the Andes Mountains. Spend a few days exploring the city and acclimating to the altitude. Visit the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Cusco, and the San Blas neighborhood.
On day six, take the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and wake up early the next day to visit Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic Inca sites in Peru. Take a guided tour of the site and learn about the history and culture of the Incas. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco.
Day 7-8: Sacred Valley
On day seven, take a tour of the Sacred Valley. This valley was the heart of the Inca Empire and is home to many important Inca sites, such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Take a guided tour of these sites and learn about the history and culture of the Incas.
On day eight, return to Cusco and spend the day exploring the city further. Visit the Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, and the Sacsayhuaman fortress.
Day 9-10: Arequipa and Colca Canyon
On day nine, take a flight to Arequipa. Arequipa is a colonial city located in southern Peru. Spend the day exploring the city and visiting its beautiful main square and the Santa Catalina Monastery.
On day ten, take a tour of Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The canyon is home to the Andean condor and offers beautiful scenic views. Take a guided tour of the canyon and visit the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.
Conclusion
Peru is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. This itinerary will allow you to discover some of the best places in Peru in just ten days. However, there are many other destinations and activities that you can add to your itinerary, depending on your interests and time. We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Peru and discover its beauty and culture.
Day | Location | Activities |
---|---|---|
1 | Lima | City tour |
2-3 | Paracas and Huacachina | Boat tour, sandboarding, dune buggy rides |
4-6 | Cusco and Machu Picchu | City tour, train to Aguas Calientes, guided tour of Machu Picchu |
7-8 | Sacred Valley | Guided tour of Inca sites |
9-10 | Arequipa and Colca Canyon | City tour, guided tour of Colca Canyon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Peru?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, do not need a visa to enter Peru for tourism purposes. Check with the Peruvian embassy or consulate in your country to find out the visa requirements.
What is the best time to visit Peru?
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. The shoulder seasons of April and October can be a good option, as there are fewer crowds and the weather is still pleasant.
What is the altitude in Peru and will I experience altitude sickness?
Peru has many high-altitude destinations, such as Cusco and Machu Picchu. Altitude sickness can affect some travelers, but there are ways to prevent it, such as acclimating for a few days in a lower-altitude location, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol and strenuous exercise. Consult your doctor before traveling to high-altitude destinations.
What is the currency in Peru and can I use my credit card?
The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol. Credit cards are widely accepted in major tourist destinations, but it is recommended to have cash for smaller transactions and tips.
Is it safe to travel to Peru?
Peru is generally a safe country for travelers, but it is important to take common travel precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.