Peru is a large nation. To do it justice, you want numerous time. From the capital of Lima to the traditional metropolis of Cusco to the jungles of the Amazon to the seashore cities to the ruins of the Sacred Valley, Peru presents you with numerous choices.
I spent 2.5 weeks there and completely beloved it. However even at a quick tempo, I nonetheless felt like I barely noticed something (although I crammed numerous actions into my journey).
So, in such a big nation, how do you break up a visit? How do you decide what to see and do? What sort of itinerary do you make?
Effectively, in fact, numerous that has to do with what you’re going for: the Amazon, the mountain climbing, the historical past, or the meals?
Most first-time guests to Peru do the southern route: Lima, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, and Cusco/Sacred Valley. This route has probably the most historic websites and the most important sights. However there’s additionally the Amazon, the seashore cities, and smaller ruins within the north.
To offer you some concepts on potential routes, listed here are my advised itineraries for visiting Peru:
Peru Itinerary: One Week
I might solely go to Peru for one week in case you’re simply planning to hike the Inca Path. If that’s the case, I’d fly to Cusco, spend two days acclimatizing (and seeing the sights I like to recommend under), after which do the hike. After that, you’ll be able to spend a pair days stress-free in Cusco earlier than flying house.
Peru Itinerary: Two Weeks
Two weeks lets you get a great (albeit barely rushed) really feel of the nation. You’ll want to maneuver shortly (flying and in a single day buses might be a should), and also you gained’t get numerous down time, but it surely’s a doable itinerary.
Days 1–3: Lima
Fly into Lima (in case you’re coming from the US, you’ll land within the morning, so that you’ll get a full day) and spend your first day sightseeing and consuming as a lot as attainable. The capital is a huge metropolis house to over 11 million folks. Most guests focus on the neighborhoods of Miraflores, Downtown, and Barranco, as these are the place nearly all of the sights are and since they’re the most secure districts.
My advised issues to do in Lima are as follows:
Free strolling tour – I like free strolling excursions, as they’re an effective way to get to know a brand new place and its historical past, to get your bearings, and to attach with an area information who can share their insider ideas and information. Lima has numerous free strolling tour corporations, however two I like to recommend are Milky Manner and Free Strolling Excursions Peru.
Airbnb Experiences – Airbnb has numerous unbelievable meals excursions, cooking lessons, and historical past walks price trying out. I feel they’re an underrated useful resource as I’ve achieved some superb actions through the platform. Regardless of your curiosity, you’ll be capable to discover one thing distinctive.
Museo Larco – This personal museum options an in depth assortment of pre-Columbian artwork, gold, and jewels in an previous 18th-century mansion with a good looking café with a pleasant backyard. There’s additionally a bit that includes pre-Colombian erotic artwork. Spanning over 5,000 years of historical past, it’s an important place to get a primer on Peru’s previous.
Huca Pucllana – It is a large adobe and clay pyramid in-built seven staggered platforms. It’s large and straightforward to get to because it’s in Miraflores, the primary district everybody stays in, so it’s very easy to see. It served as an necessary ceremonial and administrative middle for the Lima tradition (a society that existed between 100 and 700 CE). Your ticket comes with a tour that lasts about an hour.
Surquillo Market – Positioned within the district with the identical title, Surquillo is my favourite market on the town. It’s large and there are numerous little eating places right here. When you’re trying to buy groceries and eat some unbelievable and cheap meals, that is the spot.
Museo de Arte de Lima – Opened in 1961, the Lima Artwork Museum is the primary artwork museum within the metropolis and has a group that features ceramics, textiles, sculptures, and work spanning over 3,000 years, from pre-Columbian occasions to the current, with a give attention to native artists. Additionally they have a rotating checklist of non permanent exhibitions from worldwide artists, so there’s at all times one thing new to see.
LUM Museum – Formally referred to as the “The Place of Reminiscence, Tolerance, and Social Inclusion,” this instructional museum is devoted to the Peruvian inner battle of Eighties and Nineties and honors its victims. There have been over 50,000 casualties from the battle, which occurred between the federal government and the Maoist guerilla group Shining Path (60,000 folks had been displaced as effectively). It’s a sobering however must-visit museum.
Furthermore, Lima has the most effective meals scenes on the planet, so remember to eat, eat, and eat some extra. The primary restaurant is right here as are a few of the different high ones. Simply remember that a majority of those higher-end spots shut on Sunday and that you just’ll have to make reservations months prematurely (although in case you arrive after they open, you would possibly be capable to get a seat as a result of a last-minute cancelation). Some which are definitely worth the expense are:
- La Mar (seafood)
- Mercado (seafood)
- Maido (Japanese)
- Woman Bee (cocktails)
- Contraste (Peruvian)
- Central (Peruvian)
Subsequent, relying in your pursuits, you may spend a pair extra days in Lima sightseeing and consuming (it’s a cool metropolis), or head down the coast to Paracas, Haucachina, and Nazca earlier than both coming again to Lima to fly to Arequipa (or simply taking the in a single day bus from Nazca). Paracas is legendary for its mangroves, Haucachina for its sand dunes, and Nazca for the Nazca strains and the archeological web site, Cahuachi. You don’t really want greater than an evening in every place in case you are quick on time.
Days 4–7: Arequipa
I completely love Arequipa. The White Metropolis (referred to as that due to the white volcanic stone used for the buildings) has an unbelievable, energetic vibe, actually vibrant meals scene, and beautiful Spanish structure. It additionally makes for a great base to discover the close by canyons and mountains the area is legendary for. I might have spent weeks within the metropolis I beloved it a lot (as did my associates). However, if yo solely have a couple of days, I like to recommend spending two days exploring the town after which an in a single day journey to the Colca Canyon, which is Peru’s Grand Canyon.
Right here’s what’s to not miss within the metropolis of Arequipa:
Free strolling tour – There are a few nice free strolling excursions run by the identical two corporations as in Lima.
Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa – Located in the primary plaza, that is crucial Catholic church within the metropolis. Excursions right here take about 45 minutes (although you’ll be able to go by yourself), encompassing the attractive work, ornate decorations, and big organ.
Mundo Alpaca – This free museum provides you numerous details about alpacas, their significance to Andean tradition, and the way their fur is made into garments. (The indicators are actually detailed and effectively achieved.) Plus, you’ll be able to even feed a few of the animals on the middle.
Santa Catalina – Taking on a whole metropolis block, this convent is to not be missed. Based in 1580, it was energetic for hundreds of years. You get to discover a collection of hanging cloisters, chapels, and even an artwork gallery. I might advocate getting a information for 20 soles, so that you get extra historical past and context. The excursions final about an hour (however you’ll be able to see it by yourself after as effectively).
Yanahuara Mirador – Positioned outdoors the town middle, this viewpoint provides you sweeping vistas of the town and surrounding countryside. The district of the identical title can be a quiet, fairly neighborhood typically freed from vacationers that’s price exploring (try La Nueva Palomino, an unbelievable restaurant serving cheap Peruvian meals).
The Church of the Firm – That is considered one of Arequipa’s most iconic church buildings, with imposing Baroque façade (the unique was destroyed in an earthquake within the 1800s) and inside. Inside, you’ll discover unbelievable work by native artists (and Virgin and Baby by Bernardo Bitti) and gold altarpieces. Plus, you’ll be able to go to the cloisters, which are actually a gallery!
For effective eating, my two favourite spots had been China and Indigo, which each function revolutionary Andean meals. For a scrumptious Peruvian holes-in-the-wall, try Picanteria La Mundial. I additionally advocate a breakfast spot referred to as Isidro, run by two Peruvians who hung out coaching in NYC. And Munanqui (a café) has a few of the greatest sandwiches and tea choice I got here throughout within the nation.
For the Colca Canyon, there’s numerous operators round. I went through the corporate Peru Hop. Most in a single day excursions value round $40 USD.
Days 8–12: Cusco
From Arequipa, you’ll be able to both take an in a single day bus or fly to Cusco, an enormous metropolis with numerous actions and sights to discover. Don’t attempt to rush it. Actually, spend as a lot time right here as you’ll be able to! It lives as much as all of the hype, and it’s crammed with world-class eating places, plenty of artwork museums, fascinating historic websites, and delightful structure.
I might spend two days on the town to acclimatize your self earlier than doing any main hikes, because it’s 13,000 toes above sea stage!
A few of my favourite issues to see and do listed here are as follows:
Free strolling tour – As you’ll be able to inform, I like a free strolling tour, and there are half a dozen corporations right here. Your resort or hostel can join you with one, or you should utilize the businesses talked about in earlier sections. Simply keep in mind to tip on the finish!
Saqsaywaman – This citadel advanced on the northern outskirts of the town was constructed within the fifteenth century, although the earliest occupation of the location dates again even earlier, to round 900 CE. A UNESCO World Heritage Website, it’s a vastly spectacular construction and is unquestionably a must-see. You may rent a information outdoors the doorway, as there’s no signage right here. It’s additionally tremendous straightforward to get to (you’ll be able to stroll there or take the bus).
Qorikancha – Crucial Incan temple in Cusco is situated within the coronary heart of the town. Named “The Golden Temple” (as a result of the partitions had been as soon as lined in sheets of gold), it was the place the Excessive Priest resided and the place varied sacrifices had been held. It was demolished and became a church by the Spanish, however numerous the unique partitions are nonetheless there. It additionally options rotating artwork reveals.
The Pre-Columbian Artwork Museum – Opened in 2003, this museum devoted to the show of archaeological artifacts and examples of pre-Columbian artworks. There are nearly 500 gadgets on show right here, a lot of that are n load from the Larco Museum in Lima (its dad or mum museum). When you missed the museum in Lima, this can be a good one to see as an alternative since they cowl numerous the identical stuff.
Coca Museum – Museo De La Coca is a tiny museum that goes into nice element concerning the historical past of coca and its significance to native tradition, in addition to the way it grew to become outlined by cocaine over the centuries. I used to be actually impressed by the extent of element within the descriptions. When you’re going to mountain climbing, chances are high you’re going to be chewing cocoa leaves, so remember to cease by. It’s small, however attention-grabbing!
Machu Picchu Museum – Remember to see this museum earlier than you go to the location because it provides numerous historical past concerning the web site and its rediscovery in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. There are informative shows, instructional movies concerning the authentic excavations, and artifacts from the location. It’s a pleasant primer to visiting the precise ruins.
Franciscan Convent – This lovely convent is crammed with majestic tapestries, work, and cloisters, and encompasses a ornamental church. There’s little or no signage, however the pamphlet they provide you is actually detailed. It was in-built 1572 by order of Viceroy Francisco de Toledo. Don’t miss the library, which has a polyglot bible written in 5 languages.
Regional Historic Museum of Cusco – Opened in 1946, this museum does an honest job of explaining the historical past of the area, particularly earlier than the Spanish arrived. There’s an honest assortment of textiles, work, and ceramics. The opposite sections go away a bit to be desired, but it surely makes for a brief cease if you wish to be taught extra concerning the area’s historical past.
San Pedro Market – That is the biggest and most vibrant market on the town. If you wish to do any procuring, get some native produce, or simply wander round and snack, that is the place to do it!
San Blas – This space of Cusco is legendary for its artwork and eating places (enjoyable truth: the Incas initially settled artists from across the empire right here, and it’s been an artsy district ever since). The world has a bohemian vibe and it’s up on a hill, so there are a couple of good viewpoints too.
Then spend as many days you need mountain climbing. Everybody goes to go to Machu Picchu, however I wouldn’t advocate doing it in a single day, as a result of it’s important to stand up soooooo early from Cusco. As a substitute, I might go to Ollantaytambo the night time earlier than after which both take the practice or you are able to do hike from Km104. (For extra info on trekking Machu Picchu, try this put up.)
When you’re fascinated by different treks, there are additionally hikes to Palcoyo, Waqrapukara, Huchuy Qosqo, Pumamarca, and so, so, so many others. Actually, you’ve a ton of choices!
After that I might, come again to Cusco for a day and calm down or fly to Lima for a day there earlier than your flight.
Days 13 & 14: Lima
Spend your closing day or two sightseeing and consuming earlier than flying house.
Different Two-Week Itinerary
Conversely, in case you wished to go to the Amazon, you may reduce out Arequipa, preserve the identical itinerary for Lima and Cusco and go to both Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos to see the Amazon. Puerto Maldonado has extra high-end jungle lodges, whereas from Iquitos you may do some multiday river cruises. Each locations require flights to get to.
Peru One Month Itinerary
When you’ve got a full month, I might observe the above two-week itinerary but in addition add within the following:
Do extra mountain climbing – There are such a lot of hikes within the Sacred Valley (and round Peru generally) that when you have the time, you may hike as a lot as you need. You will have those I discussed about in addition to multi-day treks within the Colca Canyon, up north within the Amazon, and many different locations!
Go to the Amazon – Peru is the place the Amazon River begins its journey to the Atlantic. Positively try both Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos to discover and be taught concerning the jungle and river. In Iquitos, you’ll be able to take 3-5 day river cruises.
Puno/Lake Titicaca – You may spend a few days in Puno, which is considerably between Cusco and Arequipa, and take within the famed Lake Titicaca, the best lake on the planet. There’s not a lot in Puno however the lake is super. I’d spend 2-3 days right here.
Mancora – Positioned up north, Mancora is a well-known seashore city and an important place for world-class seafood. It’s form of a celebration spot, however you may as well go to with out partying. It’s additionally fairly distant, so the easiest way to get there may be to fly.
Spend extra time within the different areas – You too can add in additional days within the Colca Canyon, Nazca, Lima, or actually some other a part of the nation that fits your pursuits!
Peru is a huge nation. You’ll by no means have sufficient time, irrespective of how a lot you’ve (until you progress there). There’s far more to see than you would possibly assume, so, as you make your itinerary, don’t stress an excessive amount of or attempt to jam all of it in. See what you’ll be able to and use the above options as a place to begin. Try this, and also you’ll remember to have an incredible journey!
Guide Your Journey to Peru: Logistical Suggestions and Methods
Guide Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to discover a low-cost flight. They’re my favourite search engine as a result of they search web sites and airways across the globe so that you at all times know no stone is left unturned.
Guide Your Lodging
You may e-book your hostel with Hostelworld as they’ve the most important stock and greatest offers. If you wish to keep someplace aside from a hostel, use Reserving.com as they constantly return the most cost effective charges for guesthouses and low-cost resorts.
Don’t Overlook Journey Insurance coverage
Journey insurance coverage will defend you towards sickness, damage, theft, and cancellations. It’s complete safety in case something goes unsuitable. I by no means go on a visit with out it as I’ve had to make use of it many occasions previously. My favourite corporations that provide the most effective service and worth are:
On the lookout for the Greatest Firms to Save Cash With?
Try my useful resource web page for the most effective corporations to make use of whenever you journey. I checklist all those I take advantage of to economize after I’m on the highway. They’ll prevent cash whenever you journey too.
Need Extra Data on Peru?
Remember to go to my strong vacation spot information on Peru for much more planning ideas!