This carefully designed Peru trip itinerary over 7 days allows travelers to truly visit Peru through a balance of culture, history, landscapes and meaningful experiences. During this journey, you’ll explore the coastal capital of Lima, the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas, the world-famous citadel of Machu Picchu, and the colorful landscapes of Rainbow Mountain.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to discover the highlights of Peru while traveling at a comfortable pace with local guides. Each day combines cultural discovery, scenic landscapes and authentic moments that allow visitors to understand Peru beyond the typical tourist experience. From historic city streets to high mountain landscapes, this journey offers a complete introduction to the rich heritage and natural beauty that make Peru such a special destination.
Main Tour Information
- Start Location: Lima Airport
- End Location: Cusco Airport
- Availability: All year
- Physical Level: Moderate (Day 6 is challenging)
- Destinations Included: Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Rainbow Mountain
💡Pro Tip: Cusco sits at over 11,000 feet (3,400 meters)! That’s why we recommend taking it easy on your arrival day and the next day, and why we deliberately plan a lighter half-day tour to help you adjust smoothly to the high altitude. Stay well-hydrated and enjoy a cup of traditional coca tea to help your body adapt smoothly before your more active excursions.
Trip Details
Detailed Peru Travel Itinerary
Day 1 – Private Airport Transfer in Lima
Your journey to Peru begins upon arrival in Lima. After landing at the international airport, you’ll be taken to your hotel in Lima. This first day is designed to allow travelers to rest after their international flight and begin adjusting to the rhythm of Peru. Lima is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, colonial architecture and world-famous gastronomy. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to explore nearby areas or simply relax before the adventure ahead.
- Pick-up at the Lima Airport (Jorge Chávez International Airport)
- Meet your driver in the arrivals area
- Private transfer from the airport to your Lima hotel
- Drop-off at your Lima hotel
- Hotel check-in and time to rest after your international flight
- Free evening to relax or explore nearby
Day 2 – Private Lima City Tour & Domestic Flight to Cusco
The second day of this Peru trip itinerary over 7 days begins with a private city tour of Lima. During this guided experience, travelers explore the historic center of the city, including important colonial buildings, traditional plazas and cultural landmarks that reveal Lima’s role in Peru’s history. After the tour, you will be transferred back to the airport for your domestic flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in the Andean capital, we’ll provide transportation to your hotel, so you can begin acclimatizing to the altitude while enjoying the ambience of this historic city.
- Pick-up at your Lima hotel
- The artistic district of Barranco
- Miraflores with coastal views of the Pacific Ocean and Love Park
- The historic center of Lima and Plaza San Martín
- Jirón de la Unión
- Plaza de Armas (the main square of Lima), including the Cathedral and Government Palace
- Pick up your luggage at your Lima hotel
- Private transfer from your hotel in Lima to the Lima airport for your domestic flight to Cusco
- Arrival in Cusco and private transfer to your Cusco hotel
Day 3 – Half-Day Cusco City Tour
Today, you’ll explore the historic heart of Cusco and its nearby archaeological sites. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco offers a fascinating mix of Inca heritage and Spanish colonial architecture. During this half-day guided tour, travelers learn about the cultural importance of the city while visiting some of its most iconic landmarks and surrounding archaeological areas. Walking through Cusco’s historic streets allows visitors to better understand the legacy of the Inca civilization and the unique character that makes this city one of the most remarkable destinations in South America.
- Pick-up at your Cusco hotel
- Plaza de Armas (the main square or central plaza of Cusco)
- Qoricancha a.k.a. “The Golden Temple”
- Archeological sites near the city:
- Sacsayhuamán
- Q’enqo
- Pukapukara
- Tambomachay
- Drop-off at your Cusco hotel
Day 4 – Sacred Valley Tour
This full-day Sacred Valley tour takes travelers through one of the most scenic and culturally important regions of the Andes. The Sacred Valley was a key agricultural and spiritual center for the Inca civilization, and today it continues to be home to traditional villages, local markets and impressive archaeological sites. Throughout the day, travelers experience the beauty of the Andean landscapes while learning about local traditions, farming techniques and the deep cultural history of the region. The Sacred Valley offers a perfect combination of history, nature and authentic cultural encounters. This day ends with a scenic train ride through the Andes toward the famous Inca citadel and an overnight stay at the base of the mountain.
- Pick-up at your Cusco hotel
- Archeological sites visited before lunch:
- Town of Chinchero
- Moray Incan Ruins
- Salt Mines of Maras
- Buffet lunch at Urubamba (not included in price)
- Archeological site visited after lunch:
- Ollantaytambo Archeological Complex
- Train to Aguas Calientes
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes (not included in price)
- Early night’s rest at a hotel in Aguas Calientes – guide will coordinate with you on the time to meet the next morning
Day 5 – Machu Picchu Tour
One of the highlights of this 7-day Peru itinerary is visiting the Machu Picchu archeological site, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your guide will pick you up at your Aguas Calientes hotel and take you up to the citadel by bus, then guide you through Machu Picchu tours, explaining the history, architecture and mysteries surrounding this extraordinary site. As you walk through the terraces, temples and ancient pathways, you will gain a deeper understanding of why Machu Picchu remains one of the most fascinating archaeological wonders in the world. After the guided visit, travelers return to Cusco in the afternoon.
- Breakfast provided by your hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Pick-up at your Aguas Calientes hotel to take bus up to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu in English (2-3 hours)
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Lunch at a restaurant of your choice in Aguas Calientes (not included in price)
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transport from Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel
Day 6 – Rainbow Mountain Hike
This day brings you face to face with one of the most visually striking experiences of the journey – the mountain of seven colors. This high-altitude landscape is known for its naturally colored mineral layers that create the vibrant stripes seen across the mountain. The hike requires a moderate to challenging level of physical effort due to the altitude and terrain, but the panoramic views of the Andes make the experience unforgettable. Travelers who prefer a less demanding day can choose an alternative cultural or scenic activity instead.
- Pick-up at your Cusco hotel
- Transport to Rainbow Mountain, including a stopover for breakfast
- Hike around 1.5 hours to Rainbow Mountain from 4,400 m (14,400 ft) to 5,100 m (16,700 ft)
- Optional: 20 to 30-minute additional hike to the Red Valley (entrance fee not included in price)
- Hike back to the vehicle
- Transport to your hotel in Cusco, including a stopover for buffet lunch
Day 7 – Departure and Return Flights Home
On the final day of your 7-day Peru itinerary, our team will arrange a private transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule. From Cusco, travelers connect with their domestic and international flights as they begin their journey home after a memorable visit to Peru.
- Pick-up at your Cusco hotel
- Private transfer from your Cusco hotel to the Cusco airport (Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport)
- Domestic flight from Cusco to Lima
- Connect with your international flight home
Inclusions & Exclusions
What’s Included
Day 1-2: Lima Airport Transfers (assuming accommodations in Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro or Lima City Center)
Day 2 & 7: Cusco Airport Transfers (assuming accommodations in/near Cusco City Center)
Licensed bilingual tour guides
All guided activities mentioned in the itinerary
Entrance tickets to all attractions mentioned (except the Red Valley)
Private transport as noted
Roundtrip train tickets
Roundtrip bus tickets (Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu archeological site)
Accommodations in Aguas Calientes (check-in Day 4; check-out Day 5)
Day 5: Breakfast in Aguas Calientes provided by your hotel
Day 6: Box breakfast & buffet lunch
What’s Not Included
Flights
Accommodations in Lima & Cusco
Entrance ticket to the Red Valley
Meals (unless specified)
Travel/health insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for guides and drivers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the physical fitness level required for this tour?
The physical level is generally moderate, but Day 6 (Rainbow Mountain Hike) is physically challenging due to the high altitude and terrain. Travelers who prefer a less demanding option can choose an alternative cultural or scenic activity for that day.
Can you include hotels for the other nights of the tour?
Yes, absolutely! We’d be more than happy to put together a custom quote that includes your hotel accommodations for the rest of your nights as well – just let us know your preferred hotel rating and room setup.
Can this itinerary be customized to fit our preferences?
Definitely – in fact, customization is what we specialize in and pride ourselves on! We’re always happy to tailor the schedule to match your personal interests, preferred pace, or any special requests you might have.
