The Best Itinerary for 10 days in Peru

Planning to visit Peru and want to make the most of your trip?

Great choice. Peru is a country of incredible diversity — from breathtaking landscapes and a deep-rooted ancestral culture to one of the most celebrated cuisines in the world.

So, what can you expect from a 10-day itinerary in Peru? You’ll explore the ancient legacy of the Incas in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and of course, Machu Picchu. You’ll cruise on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, and discover the beauty of Arequipa and the dramatic Colca Canyon.

A 10-day trip to Peru gives you enough time to see the country’s most iconic highlights.

But be aware: the itinerary is intense, and there’s little room for unexpected changes. That’s why good planning is essential — you’ll want to book your transport, accommodation, and key activities in advance.

Wondering what to do in Peru in 10 days? Let’s dive in.

Distances in Peru: a great challenge

When planning your 10-day trip to Peru, keep in mind that distances between cities are long.

To save time, it’s best to fly instead of taking long-distance buses. It will allow you to see more without exhausting travel times.

For example, the journey from Lima to Arequipa takes just 1.5 hours by plane, compared to nearly 18 hours by bus. Unless you have extra time and want to explore overland, flying is the smarter option.

10-day Peru itinerary

1) Lima (1 day)

Welcome to Peru!

Lima is a huge city with over 10 million inhabitants. While it often gets a bad reputation in some guides, I recommend you spend at least one full day here — it truly has a lot to offer!

What to do in Lima in 1 day:

• Walk along the Malecón, a scenic cliffside promenade overlooking the Pacific Ocean — it’s the best place to catch the sunset.
• Explore Barranco, Lima’s bohemian district, full of street art, traditional mansions, independent galleries, cafés, and boutiques.
• Visit the historic center of Lima: see the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Monastery of San Francisco. For a sweet break, stop at the Choco Museo or learn about Peru’s signature drink at the Museo del Pisco, both near the Government Palace.
• Discover the famous Larco Museum, home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art, including ceramics, jewelry, and textiles. Don’t miss the beautiful garden terrace — perfect for lunch or a drink.

If you’d rather join a guided tour to maximize your time, I highly recommend this walking tour of the historic center with hotel pickup included:

Helpful resources to plan your visit:

• 25 Best Things To Do in Lima
• Visit Lima in 1 Day: The Ultimate Itinerary
• What to See and Do in 2 Days in Lima

Where to stay in Lima

For these two days, I recommend staying in Miraflores or Barranco, which are safe and well-located neighborhoods:

• Pariwana Hostel Lima: a very friendly youth hostel in the heart of Miraflores. Clean rooms, relaxed vibe, good Wi-Fi, with a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace. Dorm bed from only $13 USD and $50 USD for a private room!

• Casita Libertad Homestay: a small house located on a quiet and safe street in the Barranco neighborhood. Cozy atmosphere, very clean, with access to a fully equipped kitchen. Room from only $29 USD per night.

• Casa Andina: a 3-star hotel in Miraflores offering one of the best value-for-money stays in Lima. Modern hotel, recently renovated, with excellent service and an on-site restaurant. Buffet breakfast included, from $87 USD per night.

• Courtyard Lima Miraflores: a modern 4-star hotel perfectly located just steps from Kennedy Park. Comfortable and bright rooms, with a gym and a café-restaurant. From $165 USD per night.

2) Arequipa (1 day)

The 10-day Peru road trip continues in Arequipa, nicknamed the white city.

It is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Peru for its houses in sillar (a white volcanic stone) and its view over the impressive Misti volcano of 19,030 ft high.

It is also an ideal stop to give your body an opportunity to get used to the altitude.

Stroll through its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can contemplate the beautiful interior courtyards and visit the Plaza de Armas, considered one of the most beautiful in the country and where the cathedral, the church and the convent of the Society of Jesus are located.

But the highlight of the visit in Arequipa will undoubtedly be the Monastery of Santa Catalina. A city within the city, with alleys, the private rooms of the nuns that inhabited it and patios full of bright blue and red colors.

Don’t forget to try the typical dishes of Arequipa’s cuisine: rocoto relleno (bell pepper stuffed with minced meat) and pastel de papa (potato pie with cheese).

Have a look of:

• The best Itinerary to Visit Arequipa in 1 Day
• 2 or 3 days in Arequipa: What to Do and See?
• Arequipa: 20 Things you Can’t Miss!

How to get from Lima to Arequipa

The journey from Lima to Arequipa is about 18 hours by bus, or 1h30 by plane.

For a short stay in Peru, it is best to take a domestic flight so you can enjoy Arequipa for longer.

Where to stay in Arequipa

• Arequipay Hostel: Located a few blocks from the Main Square, this hostel offers very clean and bright dormitories. Perfect for budget travelers. Private rooms and shared dorms available. Basic breakfast served daily. From just $8 USD.

• Hotel Tierra Viva: Ideal for mid-range travelers. Just two blocks from the main square, it offers great value with comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, and buffet breakfast included. From $60 USD per night.

• Hotel Los Tambos: A great choice for those seeking superior comfort. Located just 50 meters from the main square. Stylish rooms and a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the city. À la carte breakfast with 5 menu options. From $71 USD per night.

• CIRQA – Relais & Châteaux: A stunning luxury hotel in the heart of Arequipa with a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace. Breakfast and dinner included with all rooms. From $475 USD per night.

3) Colca Canyon (1 day)

Arequipa is a very nice city that you have to include in your 10 days tour of Peru, but it would be a shame to miss the impressive Colca Canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States.

On the way you will see volcanoes and glaciers in the distance like the Mismi (18,360 ft.) then you will pass through the Aguada Blanca Reserve where you can observe the elegant vicuñas and Andean flamingos.

The landscape full of agricultural terraces is beautiful, but the highlight of the tour is the viewpoint of the Cruz del Condor that offers a privileged place to see the famous Andean condor.

A great plan would be to visit the Colca Canyon in two days and sleep one night there, but it is also possible to do a simple, one-day tour that would allow you to have an overview, if you have a tight itinerary.

• I recommend my guide: The Best Things to Visit and See in the Colca Canyon

How to visit the Colca Canyon in just 1 day:

Since you are short on time, your best option is to take a day tour to Colca Canyon from Arequipa.

It leaves early because the road is long (4 hours one way), and includes pick up from your hotel in Arequipa, lunch in Chivay and the Cruz del Condor:

Where to Stay in the Colca Canyon

• Paraiso Las Palmeras: the best option in Sangalle Oasis! The perfect place to relax during the Colca Canyon trek, with a pool surrounded by lush vegetation, an on-site restaurant, and good Wi-Fi. Breakfast included, from just $26 USD for a double room with private bathroom.

• La Granja del Colca: A true gem in Cabanaconde! Perched on a cliff, this hotel offers amazing views of the canyon—even from your room—and it’s one of the best spots to see condors in the morning. There are also friendly llamas in the garden. Fantastic value for money, from just $52 USD per night.

• Casa Andina Classic Colca: For a more comfortable stay in the Colca Valley, this charming rustic hotel in Chivay offers bungalows set in beautiful gardens. There’s also a great restaurant, breakfast buffet, spa, and even a telescope to admire the southern sky. From $72 USD per night.

• Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs: The perfect choice for a romantic stay in the Colca Valley. With direct access to natural hot springs, a spa, restaurant, and bar, this hotel features stylish rustic rooms with garden views. From $164 USD per night.

4) Puno (1 day)

The city of Puno, at more than 12,470 ft. above sea level, is the starting point for excursions to Lake Titicaca.

The city is often viewed as a simple practical stop by travelers, however it is considered the capital of Peruvian folklore. The Virgen de la Candelaria is celebrated here every February, in a huge festival that brings together 50,000 dancers and 15,000 musicians!

As the tours to Lake Titicaca leave early in the morning anyway, it is very likely that you will have to spend a night in Puno.

Take the opportunity to visit the city. I recommend you to read: What to See in Puno: Top 20 Things to Visit and Do

How to get to Puno

In this case it is better to take the bus (6h) because there are no direct flights between Arequipa and Puno, and you would have to make a stopover in Lima or Cusco.

You can also book the direct bus to Puno from Chivay in the Colca Canyon with the company 4M, without having to return to Arequipa.

Where to stay in Puno

• Kaaro Hotel El Buho: A small rustic-style hotel with an excellent value for money, a few blocks from the center of Puno. Includes Wi-Fi, restaurant, and babysitting services. Breakfast included from $27 USD per night.

• Hotel Hacienda Plaza de Armas: A 3-star hotel ideally located on Puno’s Plaza de Armas. From $50 USD per night.

• Uros Titicaca Lodge: My top pick! Built on one of the floating islands of the Uros, it’s one of the most exotic hotels in Peru. If you can, I highly recommend spending at least one night here during your Peru trip. From $117 USD per night.

5) Lake Titicaca (1-2 days)

Sailing so close to the sky, on the highest navigable lake in the world, is an unforgettable experience.

There are about 40 islands in Lake Titicaca between Peru and Bolivia but if you only have 1 or 2 days, I suggest you see this:

-The floating islands of the Uros built by hand using a type of reed called totora reed

-The island of Taquile with a picturesque landscape with agricultural terraces and small roads. The island is known for its textile art, inscribed on the list of Intangible Heritage of Unesco since 2008

-The island of Amantani, the largest island of Lake Titicaca on the Peruvian side. You can climb the sacred hills of Pachatata and Pachamama.

• If you only have 1 day, I recommend this Tour to Uros and Taquile Island. It includes pick up from your hotel in Puno, entrance fees, guide, a short hike and lunch in Taquile:

• If you have 2 days (even better!), you can take the full tour which includes pick up from your hotel, the Uros, Taquile and Amantani islands. You will spend a night in the home of an Amantani family with activities and meals. Book it here:

6) Cuzco (2 days)

Day 1 – Drive from Puno to Cuzco

From Puno, it will take you one day to get to Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Incas and of course a must stop on your Peruvian journey!

The good thing is that the trip is a unique experience with fantastic landscapes. The road crosses the Andes mountain range, with views over the valleys of the Huatanay River, then the plains that are home to llamas and alpacas.

The highest point is La Raya, a panoramic stop, located at 14,175 ft. above sea level.

Going from Puno to Cusco:

• By plane: 55 minutes with Latam, Avianca. Departure from Juliaca.
• By train: the andean Explorer train departs at 8h and arrives at 18h, Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, the panorama is absolutely magnificent!
• By bus: day or night bus 6h30 – Buy your tickets for the direct bus now!
• By tourist bus: it is possible to make the journey with guided visits to interesting places along the way (the church of Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, the museum of Pucara) and a buffet lunch. You can easily book here:

Day 2 – Visit Cusco, the capital of the Inca empire, and a must-see of a 10-day trip in Peru.

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Discover the Plaza de Armas and its cathedral, the temple of “El Triunfo” which was the first Christian church in Cusco, and the church of “La Compañía de Jesús” an example of Andean baroque architecture, a unique blend of Christian and indigenous elements.

Visit the fascinating artists’ quarter of San Blas with its workshops, art galleries, restaurants and cafes.

History buffs can visit the Convent of Santo Domingo whose foundations were built on the Coricancha or “Temple of the Sun”, which was the most sacred place of the Inca empire.

You can also see the San Pedro market, with its many varieties of potatoes, fruits, vegetables, quinoa and local herbs. If you wish, you can buy handmade products at good prices, taste fresh fruit juices and even try the dishes cooked by the natives, sold in the market. But be careful, you must have a solid stomach.

If you are not used to eating at the outdoor stalls in Latin America you can eat in a traditional restaurant and try the local specialty: the “cuy” (name given to the guinea pig), cooked on the grill or in many different ways.

If you have little time, I suggest this complete and cheap tour of Cusco with pick up at your hotel.

You can book it here:

You can also read:

• What to Do and See in Cusco in 2 or 3 days?
• Cusco: The 30 Best Things to Visit and See
• Cusco: 19 Free Activities + Money Saving Tips

Where to Stay in Cusco

• Backpacker La Bo’M: One of the best hostels in Cusco. Founded by Sarah, a French expat, it includes a delicious crêperie next door. Perfectly located in the charming neighborhood of San Blas, it offers good Wi-Fi, a cozy vibe, and of course, amazing crêpes to start your day! Dorms from only $13 USD and private rooms from $33 USD.

• La Casona Real Cusco: For those looking for more comfort, this charming traditional-style guesthouse is located on a quiet street just steps from the Plaza de Armas. Impeccably clean, with hot water, great Wi-Fi, and a warm welcome. Breakfast included, all from just $76 USD per night!

• Hotel Tierra Viva Cusco San Blas: In the lovely San Blas neighborhood, this upscale hotel offers spacious rooms with very comfortable beds. Its modern décor with local touches and peaceful interior courtyard make for a relaxing stay. Buffet breakfast included. From $98 USD per night!

• Antigua Casona San Blas: A chic and intimate 4-star hotel in San Blas. It features very comfortable rooms, a warm atmosphere, and a tasteful blend of modern and traditional décor. Don’t miss their Piedra & Sal restaurant, one of Cusco’s best. Excellent breakfast included. From $250 USD per night.

• Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel: For a romantic stay in Cusco, this 5-star gem is housed in a spectacular colonial building across from Coricancha, with roots dating back to Inca times. Enjoy the indoor pool, gym, spa, bar, and restaurant. Delicious breakfast included. From $325 USD per night.

7) The Sacred Valley of the Incas (1 day)

You can’t go to Machu Picchu without first discovering the Sacred Valley, a destination you can’t miss on a road trip to Peru.

Since there is a lot to visit and the places are very far from each other, you will have to choose what you want to see in 1 day in the Sacred Valley:

-The village of Chinchero and its traditional handicrafts, the salt mines of Maras, the agricultural terraces of Moray.

-The Inca ruins and the Andean market of Pisac, and Ollantaytambo one of the most monumental architectural complexes of the ancient Inca Empire.

• You can also read my article The 21 Best Things to Do in the Sacred Valley!

How to get from Cusco to the Sacred Valley

To get to the Sacred Valley, the best way is to take the colectivo which is a shared cab. In Cusco they leave from Pavitos street.

• If you do not want to worry about transportation, the easiest way is to take a tour with pick up at your hotel that includes Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero and lunch:

Practical Information

• Spending the night in Ollantaytambo is both convenient and strategic, as its train station is halfway between Cusco and Aguas Calientes—making it easier to reach Machu Picchu the next morning!
• To get around the Sacred Valley, the best option is the colectivo, a shared minivan. In Cusco, they leave from Calle Pavitos.

Where to Stay Before Visiting Machu Picchu?

After visiting the Sacred Valley, you have three options: return to Cusco, spend the night in Ollantaytambo, or take the train to Aguas Calientes and sleep there so you can be among the first to enter Machu Picchu.

If you’re visiting Machu Picchu with group 1, staying overnight in Aguas Calientes is definitely the best choice.

Where to Stay in Ollantaytambo

• Las Portadas: This is the best budget option in Ollantaytambo. A typical local house with a lovely garden and mountain views, just 5 minutes from the main square and 15 minutes from the train station. Rooms from just $23 USD with breakfast included.

• Casa de la Chola: A beautiful room in a charming lodge located just outside of town, about 10 minutes from Ollantaytambo train station. Perfect for nature lovers. From $60 USD per night, with a breakfast that’s a true treat for food lovers.

• Apu Lodge: A lovely hotel with a garden and fantastic views of the mountains and Inca ruins. Very peaceful location, with spacious and comfortable rooms that can host up to 5 people. Friendly staff. Excellent breakfast included. From $93 USD per night!

• El Albergue Ollantaytambo: A countryside-style hotel located right at the Ollantaytambo train station, perfect for catching the early train to Machu Picchu. Comfortable rooms, a beautiful green garden, an organic farm, and a peaceful setting. Onsite you’ll also find an excellent restaurant, a coffee roastery, and a craft distillery. Breakfast included. From $275 USD per night!

Where to Stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)

• Nativus Hostel Machu Picchu: A clean and colorful hostel with a rooftop terrace, happy hour bar, and restaurant. Great location away from the noise. Breakfast included. Dorm beds from just $14 USD and private rooms from $54 USD.

• Panorama B&B: Just a few steps from the market, train station, and Machu Picchu bus stop. Offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains. A comfortable hotel with a warm welcome from Christophe, the owner, always ready to share local tips. From $101 USD per night.

• Casa del Sol Boutique Hotel 4*: Ideal for a romantic stay, with rooms offering river views and jacuzzi, spa, and pool access. Breakfast and dinner included at the Manko Restaurant. From $227 USD per night.

• Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel 5*: This stunning eco-lodge on the banks of the Vilcanota River is the best option for a luxury stay in Peru. Set in a private 5-hectare garden home to 372 orchid species, 162 bird species, 108 butterfly species, and even a freshwater waterfall. Breakfast and dinner included. From $448 USD per night.

 

8) Visit Machu Picchu (1 day)

You’ve reached the last big stage of your 10-day itinerary in Peru: the one that will take you to Machu Picchu, the highlight of your stay.

If you know the dates of your trip to Machu Picchu, I recommend that you book your train tickets to Aguas Calientes now, to make sure you can get on the train at the time that suits you best.

You can buy your tickets here, either from Cusco or Ollantaytambo:

The ancient Inca city discovered in 1911 by anthropologist Hiram Bingham is one of The 7 Wonders of the Modern World.

You will be able to admire the architectural mastery of large blocks perfectly carved in stone that remains till this day, in a beautiful place nestled between high green mountains.

You can also climb up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain which offer an exceptional view over the site and the valley.

It is very important to book your tickets to Machu Picchu in advance:

• Ticket to Machu Picchu
• Ticket for Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu – It is necessary to buy it several months in advance!
• Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket

To choose, I invite you to read: Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain: What are the Differences?

Return to Cusco for the night.

Where to Stay in Cusco

• Backpacker La Bo’M: One of the best hostels in Cusco. Founded by Sarah, a French expat, it includes a delicious crêperie next door. Perfectly located in the charming neighborhood of San Blas, it offers good Wi-Fi, a cozy vibe, and of course, amazing crêpes to start your day! Dorms from only $13 USD and private rooms from $33 USD.

• La Casona Real Cusco: For those looking for more comfort, this charming traditional-style guesthouse is located on a quiet street just steps from the Plaza de Armas. Impeccably clean, with hot water, great Wi-Fi, and a warm welcome. Breakfast included, all from just $76 USD per night!

• Hotel Tierra Viva Cusco San Blas: In the lovely San Blas neighborhood, this upscale hotel offers spacious rooms with very comfortable beds. Its modern décor with local touches and peaceful interior courtyard make for a relaxing stay. Buffet breakfast included. From $98 USD per night!

• Antigua Casona San Blas: A chic and intimate 4-star hotel in San Blas. It features very comfortable rooms, a warm atmosphere, and a tasteful blend of modern and traditional décor. Don’t miss their Piedra & Sal restaurant, one of Cusco’s best. Excellent breakfast included. From $250 USD per night.

• Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel: For a romantic stay in Cusco, this 5-star gem is housed in a spectacular colonial building across from Coricancha, with roots dating back to Inca times. Enjoy the indoor pool, gym, spa, bar, and restaurant. Delicious breakfast included. From $325 USD per night.

9) Return to Lima and end of the trip

This is the end of your 10-day stay in Peru. It will then be necessary to return to Lima to take the flight back from Jorge Chavez International Airport.

If your flight is at night you can take the opportunity to make the last purchases of handicrafts and souvenirs at the Inka Market in Miraflores, or in the small stores in the historic center of Lima.

You can end your stay on a gastronomic note by choosing to dine at the Central or Maido restaurants, which are among the 50 best restaurants in the world. Be sure to make your reservation in advance.

Another option, less expensive and very pleasant, is to take a gastronomic tour of Lima that will allow you to taste the best dishes of Peruvian gastronomy:

• Gastronomic Tour through Lima’s Historic Center
• Gastronomic Tour of Barranco

 

Book Your Flight at the Best Price

Planning a trip to Peru? To get the best deal on your flights, I recommend using this flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner.

It’s the easiest way to find the lowest prices for both international flights and domestic flights within Peru—ensuring you pay the best rate with no hassle!

Rent a Car in Peru

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Peru at your own pace and make the most of your trip!

Personally, I always use Booking.com Cars for a few key reasons:

• Easily compare prices from all major rental agencies in one place—finding the best deal has never been easier!
• Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can reserve with peace of mind.
• Better insurance coverage at a lower price than rental companies—saving you money with no extra effort.

Click the button below to find the best car rental deals in Peru:

Traveling to Peru? These articles will help you!

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• Itinerary: 5-6 days in Peru – Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
• Itinerary: 7-8 days in Peru – See the maximum in one week
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Peru – The classic route
• Itinerary: 15 days in Peru – An itinerary that includes northern Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru + Bolivia – The best itinerary for visiting both countries
• Itinerary: 1 month in Peru – What to see and do in 30-31 days

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