Peru 5 Day Itinerary

Peru Travel Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Lima

  • Places to Go: Visit the Plaza de Armas, a historic square in the heart of the city. Explore the nearby Cathedral and Government Palace.
  • Activities: Take a guided tour of the famous Miraflores neighborhood and enjoy its scenic views of the coastline.
  • Things to Know:
    • Lima is known for its gastronomic scene; try some Peruvian cuisine like ceviche or lomo saltado at one of the many restaurants.
    • The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene; consider visiting the Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI).
  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and other major countries do not need a visa to enter Peru. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is required.
  • Transportation:
    • Fly into Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima.
    • Use taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber for transportation within the city.

Day 2: Cusco

  • Places to Go: Explore the historic center of Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Plaza de Armas and the nearby Cathedral.
  • Activities: Take a guided tour of the ancient Inca ruins of Sacsayhuamán or Q’enqo.
  • Things to Know:
    • Be prepared for high altitude (3,399 meters/11,148 feet) in Cusco. Drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed.
    • Try some traditional Andean cuisine like papas a la Huancaina at local restaurants.
  • Visa Requirements: Same as Day 1.
  • Transportation:
    • Take an early morning bus or flight from Lima to Cusco (approximately 2 hours).
    • Use taxis or walk around the city for transportation.

Day 3: Sacred Valley

  • Places to Go: Visit the ancient Inca ruins of Pisac and its famous market. Explore the nearby town of Urubamba.
  • Activities: Take a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, stopping at various viewpoints and villages along the way.
  • Things to Know:
    • Be prepared for altitude changes throughout the day (approximately 2,900 meters/9,500 feet).
    • Try some local handicrafts and textiles at the Pisac market.
  • Visa Requirements: Same as Day 1.
  • Transportation:
    • Take a guided tour or bus from Cusco to the Sacred Valley (approximately 30 minutes).

Day 4: Machu Picchu

  • Places to Go: Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
  • Activities: Explore the ruins and surrounding areas on foot or take a guided tour.
  • Things to Know:
    • Be prepared for high altitude (2,430 meters/7,972 feet) at Machu Picchu. Drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed.
    • Try some local snacks and drinks at the Sun Gate or the nearby town of Aguas Calientes.
  • Visa Requirements: Same as Day 1.
  • Transportation:
    • Take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (approximately 2 hours), then take the train to Aguas Calientes (approximately 4 hours).
    • From Aguas Calientes, take a shuttle bus up to Machu Picchu (approximately 30 minutes).

Day 5: Return to Lima

  • Places to Go: Visit any last-minute attractions in Cusco or Lima.
  • Activities: Take some time to shop for souvenirs or enjoy the local cuisine one last time.
  • Things to Know:
    • Be prepared for altitude changes on your return journey from Machu Picchu and Cusco back to Lima.
    • Try to depart from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) with a minimum of 4 hours’ notice before your flight.
  • Visa Requirements: Same as Day 1.
  • Transportation:
    • Take an early morning bus or flight from Cusco back to Lima (approximately 2 hours).