Planning the Perfect Peru Adventure: 10-Day Itinerary
Peru is a country of extremes — desert coastlines, Amazonian jungle, snow-capped peaks, ancient ruins, and one of the world’s best cuisines.
So how do you fit it all into just 10 days?
This expertly curated 10 day Peru itinerary blends adventure, cultural depth, and relaxation. From Machu Picchu to the Amazon, it’s your essential Peru travel guide for a life-changing journey.
At a Glance: 10-Day Peru Itinerary
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lima | Historic center, food tour |
| 2–3 | Sacred Valley | Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero |
| 4 | Machu Picchu | Wonder of the world |
| 5 | Cusco | Ancient Inca capital |
| 6 | Amazon | Fly to Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos |
| 7–8 | Amazon Rainforest | Wildlife, boat rides, jungle hikes |
| 9 | Return to Lima | Cultural afternoon |
| 10 | Departure | Museums or last-minute shopping |
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Lima
- Explore the Historic Center: Plaza de Armas, San Francisco Convent
- Sample ceviche, anticuchos, and pisco sours on a food tour
- Overnight in Miraflores or Barranco
Day 2: Travel to the Sacred Valley
- Morning flight to Cusco; descend to Sacred Valley
- Visit Pisac ruins and artisan market
- Stop in Chinchero for weaving demonstrations
- Overnight in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo
Day 3: Sacred Valley Exploration
- Explore Moray and Maras salt mines
- Afternoon tour of Ollantaytambo fortress
- Take an evening train to Aguas Calientes
- Overnight near Machu Picchu
Day 4: Machu Picchu Day
- Early bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour
- Optional hike: Huayna Picchu or Sun Gate
- Return by train and transfer to Cusco
- Overnight in Cusco
Day 5: Discover Cusco
- Visit Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán, and San Pedro Market
- Stroll historic streets and try local specialties
- Optional activity: chocolate-making or cooking class
- Overnight in Cusco
Day 6: Enter the Amazon
- Flight to Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos
- Boat transfer to jungle lodge
- Afternoon jungle hike or boat ride
- Overnight in the Amazon
Day 7–8: Jungle Exploration
- Wildlife safaris, canopy walkways, and oxbow lakes
- Visit macaw clay licks and learn about medicinal plants
- Evening return to Puerto Maldonado/Iquitos or flight to Lima
Day 9: Back in Lima
- Explore Barranco’s bohemian charm or bike along the coast
- Farewell dinner at Central, Maido, or a local cevichería
- Overnight in Lima
Day 10: Departure
- Free morning for museums or artisan shopping
- Transfer to airport — adiós, Perú!
Optional Add-Ons
- Rainbow Mountain trek
- Lake Titicaca & Uros Islands
- Colca Canyon & Arequipa
- Kuelap & Gocta Falls in Northern Peru
- Paracas & Nazca Lines
Top Tips for a 10 Day Peru Trip
- Acclimate smart: Start in the Sacred Valley before sleeping in Cusco
- Pack layers: Expect sun, cold, and humidity across regions
- Book early: Especially Machu Picchu, trains, and guides
- Travel light: Jungle lodges and trains prefer soft bags
- Use local guides: Especially in Sacred Valley and the Amazon
Sample Budget (Mid-Range Estimate)
| Category | Cost (USD) per person |
|---|---|
| Domestic Flights | $200–$300 |
| Hotels (3-star avg.) | $800–$1,200 |
| Machu Picchu + Trains | $250–$300 |
| Meals & Local Guides | $400–$600 |
| Amazon Jungle Lodge | $350–$500 (2 nights) |
| Estimated Total | $2,000–$3,000 |
Luxury travelers should budget an additional $1,000+.
Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Peru Starts Here
This 10 day Peru itinerary gives you a taste of everything — ancient ruins, cloud forests, Amazon wildlife, and world-class cuisine.
Whether you’re chasing llamas in the Andes, walking through jungle canopies, or toasting with a pisco sour at sunset, Peru invites you to experience travel at its most vivid.
Ready to turn this itinerary into reality?
Let Explorify Expeditions help you build your dream Peru journey — ethically, seamlessly, and full of unforgettable moments.
📩 Click here to get started on your custom Peru travel guide.
