Peru: Machu Picchu & Beyond
Eight days through the heart of ancient Incan civilization. From Lima's world-class cuisine to the high-altitude streets of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu — this is one of the world's greatest travel experiences. Acclimatize properly and prepare to be humbled by Andean history and landscape.
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Get startedVisiting Lima in September?
Expect 3-20°C (37-68°F) — shoulder season. About 5 rainy days this month.
Trip Highlights
A suggested shape for each day, not fixed times — you can reorder everything once it’s your trip.
Arrive Lima
- Arrive at Lima Jorge Chavez Airport
- Check in to Miraflores hotel
- Huaca Pucllana archaeological site
- World-class ceviche dinner in Miraflores
Lima Food & Culture
In this order
- 1Larco Museum Inca gold collection
- 2Lima historic centre and Plaza Mayor
- 3Surquillo market food tour
- 4Barranco neighbourhood arts district
Fly to Cusco — Acclimatize
- Morning flight to Cusco (3400m altitude)
- Rest and coca tea for acclimatization
- Gentle Plaza de Armas walk
- Light dinner and early bed
Cusco City
In this order
- 1Qorikancha Sun Temple
- 2San Pedro Market
- 3Sacsayhuaman fortress above Cusco
- 4Peruvian cooking class
Sacred Valley
In this order
- 1Pisac market and Inca ruins
- 2Salt Pans of Maras
- 3Moray agricultural terraces
- 4Overnight in Ollantaytambo
Machu Picchu
In this order
- 1Early train to Aguas Calientes
- 2Bus up to Machu Picchu citadel
- 3Guided tour of the ruins
- 4Sun Gate hike for panoramic views
- 5Return to Cusco by train
Rainbow Mountain Option
- Optional Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain hike (early start)
- Or rest day in Cusco with local market visit
- Farewell Peruvian dinner
Departure
- Morning in Cusco's artisan markets
- Flight back to Lima
- Connect to international departure
Customize This Trip
Use our AI to personalize this itinerary to your exact preferences, budget, and travel dates.
Estimated budget: $880 per person for 8 days
Before you go
Entry rules, tipping norms, plug types, emergency numbers, and the best months to visit.