Lima - 21 Days Itinerary

Airport Transfer to Accommodation

Enjoy a safe, private taxi transfer from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) to your accommodation in Lima, assisted by a professional driver.

Look for a sign with your name. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Lima/Transfer-to-or-from-Jorge-Chavez-Lima-Airport/d928-5612809P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Check-in & Settle In

Check into your apartment and take some time to unpack and relax after your journey.

Explore Bohemian Barranco

Wander through the charming, artistic district of Barranco.

Discover colorful street art, colonial mansions, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs.

A great area for unique shops and cafes. Consider a Pisco Sour at a local bar.

Dinner in Barranco

Enjoy dinner at one of Barranco's many excellent restaurants, offering a mix of traditional Peruvian and international cuisine.

Lima City Tour + Drone Video

Discover Lima's most iconic historical parts with an expert guide, learning the history and secrets of each corner.

You'll also receive aerial drone video clips of your experience.

A great way to see the main sights efficiently and get memorable photos. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Lima/2-Hour-Private-Tour-of-Miraflores-with-Drone-Video-Included/d928-155286P8?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Lunch Near Plaza de Armas

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch at a local restaurant in the historic center.

Lima Street Food Tour

Experience a curated and insightful tour through the lesser-known areas of Lima’s historic center, tasting local delights and learning about Peruvian culinary culture.

Come hungry! This tour goes beyond popular spots to give you an authentic taste of Lima. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Lima/Catacombs-and-Best-Central-Lima/d928-446512P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Evening Relaxation

Return to your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps preparing a light dinner or ordering in after a day of exploration and food tasting.

Peruvian Cooking Class with Market Tour

Visit an authentic local market to discover diverse Peruvian products, then learn to prepare traditional dishes in a highly-rated cooking class.

Hands-on experience, learn tricks for selecting fresh ingredients. Includes pick-up. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Lima/Market-Tour-Peruvian-Cooking-Classes/d928-356777P3?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Miraflores Waterfront Stroll

Walk along the beautiful Malecón, a cliff-top promenade in Miraflores, enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

See the Faro de la Marina and Parque del Amor.

Perfect for scenic views, paragliding watching, and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Visit Kennedy Park

Experience the famous Parque Kennedy in Miraflores, known for its resident feline population and vibrant atmosphere with local artists and street performers.

A lively hub, especially in the evening. Grab a churro from a street vendor.

Dinner in Miraflores

Enjoy a delicious dinner in Miraflores, known for its diverse culinary offerings ranging from high-end restaurants to cozy cafes.

Discover Shipibo Women's Art

Embark on an authentic cultural journey alongside women of the Shipibo-Konibo Nation, guardians of Amazonian wisdom. Discover their art, language, and stories of migration in Lima.

This experience offers a deep dive into Amazonian indigenous culture within the city. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Lima/Private-Experience-Knowing-the-Shipiba-Indigenous-Community-of-Lima/d928-340995P3?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Barranco Art Galleries & Shops

Spend the afternoon exploring Barranco's numerous art galleries, boutique shops, and artisan craft stores. Find unique souvenirs and admire local artwork.

Sunset Views & Pisco Sours

Enjoy the sunset from one of Barranco's cliff-side viewpoints, followed by Pisco Sours at a trendy bar.

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Savor a final dinner in Barranco, perhaps trying a cevicheria or a traditional Peruvian restaurant recommended by locals.

Leisurely Morning & Brunch

Enjoy a relaxed start to your Sunday.

Have brunch at a charming cafe in Barranco or prepare breakfast at your apartment. Use the time to relax or catch up on journaling.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Barranco or Miraflores, picking up crafts, alpaca products, or local delicacies.

Pack & Prepare for Next Destination

Return to your apartment to pack your bags and prepare for your onward journey to the next exciting region of Peru.

Farewell Dinner in Lima

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Lima, celebrating the start of your Peruvian adventure.

Bus to Huacachina

Board a comfortable, luxury bus from Lima to Ica (the closest major city to Huacachina).

Enjoy the scenic drive along the coast. Buses are typically well-equipped with reclining seats and onboard service.

Check-in & Lunch

Check into your accommodation in Huacachina.

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants surrounding the oasis.

Many restaurants offer views of the oasis and dunes. Try local Peruvian dishes.

Dune Buggy & Sandboarding

Experience an exhilarating ride across the vast desert dunes in a dune buggy, followed by sandboarding down the slopes.

This activity is a highlight of Huacachina.

Tours are readily available from various operators around the oasis. The Viator 'Full day Huacachina from Lima Buggy and Sandboard and Lunch' (Product Code: 5595580P3) offers this, but local tours just for the activity are also abundant. Wear comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and bring water.

Oasis Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant overlooking the illuminated Huacachina Oasis, reflecting on the day's desert adventures.

Nazca Lines Overflight

Take a thrilling flight over the Nazca Lines, ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor by the Nazca culture.

Witness the mysterious figures of animals, plants, and geometric shapes from above.

Book this tour in advance. Flights typically depart from Nazca, but can sometimes be arranged from Pisco, requiring a transfer. The Viator 'Discover the Nazca Lines from Lima with Round-Trip Transportation' (Product Code: 162413P18) is a full-day option from Lima; a local overflight will be shorter and more cost-effective from the Ica region.

Pisco & Winery Tour

Explore the fertile Ica Valley, renowned for its vineyards and the production of Pisco, Peru's national spirit.

Visit a traditional bodega to learn about the Pisco-making process and enjoy tastings.

Many tours can be arranged from Huacachina or Ica, often including visits to artisanal and industrial bodegas. Try to visit Hacienda Tacama or Bodega El Catador.

Dinner in Ica

Enjoy a dinner in Ica city, perhaps trying some regional specialties like 'Carapulcra' or 'Sopa Seca'.

Transfer to Paracas

Take a short taxi or shared shuttle from Huacachina to Paracas, a coastal town known for its wildlife and reserve.

Ballestas Islands Boat Tour

Embark on a boat tour to the 'poor man's Galapagos'.

Witness diverse marine wildlife including sea lions, various bird species, and possibly penguins, all within a short distance.

Boats depart frequently in the morning. This tour is often included in the Viator 'Ultimate Comfort: Lima to Huacachina, Ballestas and Vineyard' (Product Code: 103984P9) for a full day trip. Book upon arrival or through your accommodation. Bring a jacket as it can be windy and chilly on the water.

Paracas National Reserve

Explore the stunning coastal desert landscape of Paracas National Reserve, a protected natural area with unique geological formations, beautiful beaches like Playa Roja, and historical sites.

You can hire a taxi for a private tour or join a group tour from Paracas. Don't miss the 'Cathedral' viewpoint (though partially collapsed after an earthquake, it's still impressive).

Seafood Lunch

Indulge in fresh seafood for lunch at one of the restaurants along El Chaco beach in Paracas.

Relaxation

Enjoy some free time, perhaps relax by the pool at your hotel or take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk.

Dinner in Paracas

Dine at a local restaurant in Paracas, enjoying the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Morning Leisure in Paracas

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Paracas.

You could visit the Julio C. Tello Site Museum to learn about the Paracas culture, or simply relax on the beach.

The museum offers insights into the ancient Paracas civilization and its exquisite textiles.

Lunch in Paracas

Have a final delicious lunch in Paracas before departing.

Travel to Nazca

Take a comfortable bus or private transfer from Paracas to Nazca, preparing for more exploration of the Nazca Lines region.

Check-in Nazca & Relaxation

Check into your accommodation in Nazca.

Take some time to relax and freshen up.

Dinner in Nazca

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Nazca town, trying some regional dishes.

Nazca Museum or Observation Tower

Visit the Museo Antonini to see artifacts of the Nazca culture, or head to the Mirador de Nazca (Observation Tower) for a ground-level view of a few Nazca Lines (the hand and the tree).

The Observation Tower offers a different perspective if you've already done the overflight, or a budget-friendly alternative. The museum provides excellent historical context.

Chauchilla Cemetery Tour

Visit the pre-Inca Chauchilla Cemetery, an archaeological site where ancient mummies and artifacts are preserved in their original tombs, offering a fascinating glimpse into Nazca burial traditions.

Requires a short taxi or tour from Nazca. Highly recommended for history enthusiasts.

Farewell Lunch in Nazca

Enjoy a final lunch in Nazca before preparing for your overnight journey.

Leisure & Departure Preparation

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation.

Gather your belongings and head to the bus terminal.

Confirm your bus departure time and arrive at the terminal at least 30-45 minutes before departure.

Overnight Bus to Cusco

Board a comfortable overnight luxury bus from Nazca to Cusco.

This long journey takes you through the stunning Andean highlands, arriving in Cusco the following morning (Day 11). Opt for 'Cama' or 'Bus Cama' service for fully reclining seats.

Travel from Ica Region to Cusco

Morning travel from the Ica region back to Lima (via bus/private transfer), followed by a domestic flight from Lima to Cusco.

This will be a significant travel day, so ensure you stay hydrated and take it easy upon arrival.

Private Airport Transfer

Upon arrival at Cusco's airport, you will be met by a private transfer service to take you directly to your accommodation, allowing for a smooth and comfortable start to your Cusco experience.

Pre-booking a private transfer is highly recommended, especially after a long travel day and for ease of navigation in a new city.

Cusco Plaza de Armas Stroll

After checking in, take a gentle stroll around Cusco's Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of the city. Admire the colonial architecture and soak in the atmosphere without overexertion to aid with altitude acclimation. Hydrate frequently and avoid heavy meals.

Walk slowly, drink plenty of coca tea or water, and avoid alcohol on your first day at altitude. Shops and cafes are plentiful around the square.

Light Dinner & Rest

Enjoy a light dinner at a local restaurant near your accommodation.

Focus on easily digestible foods and get an early night's rest to further assist with acclimation.

Many restaurants around the Plaza de Armas offer a variety of cuisines. Consider trying a light Peruvian soup.

Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

Visit Qorikancha, the most important temple in the Inca Empire dedicated primarily to the Sun God, Inti.

See the impressive Inca stonework fused with Spanish colonial architecture.

Part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico). Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for deeper insights.

San Pedro Market Experience

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant chaos of San Pedro Market, a bustling local market where you can find everything from fresh produce and exotic fruits to local crafts, textiles, and delicious street food.

A true cultural experience.

Great for souvenir shopping and tasting local snacks. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Lunch in Cusco

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Many options range from traditional Peruvian fare to international cuisine.

Explore Sacsayhuaman Fortress

Visit the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a monumental stone structure offering panoramic views of Cusco.

Marvel at the massive interlocking stones, some weighing hundreds of tons.

Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Best visited with a guide to understand its history and significance. It's an uphill walk, or a short taxi ride from Plaza de Armas.

Dinner with Folkloric Show

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner accompanied by a vibrant folkloric music and dance show, offering a glimpse into Andean culture.

Many restaurants offer dinner and show packages. Book in advance for popular venues. The show at the Art Center is excellent and free with the Cusco Tourist Ticket (show only, dinner separate).

Sacred Valley Tour Departure

Depart from Cusco for a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley.

Today's focus will be on Pisac, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines.

Many tour operators offer comprehensive Sacred Valley tours, either group or private. Booking in advance is recommended. Operators like 'South Adventure Peru Tours' or 'Cultural Immersion Day Tours' (found on TripAdvisor) could be good options.

Pisac Market & Inca Ruins

Explore the vibrant Pisac market, famous for its handicrafts and textiles, and then ascend to the stunning Pisac Inca ruins, featuring agricultural terraces, temples, and residential areas.

The market is especially lively on Sundays but open daily. The ruins are part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

Lunch in Urubamba

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch, often a buffet, in the town of Urubamba, situated in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Moray Agricultural Terraces

Visit the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory used to experiment with different crop growing conditions.

Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Guides provide fascinating insights into Inca engineering.

Maras Salt Mines

Explore the Maras Salt Mines, a striking landscape of thousands of salt pans carved into the mountainside, still actively harvested by local families.

There is a separate entrance fee for the salt mines, not included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Great photo opportunities.

Return to Cusco

Return journey to Cusco after a full day of exploring the Sacred Valley.

Relax and enjoy the scenic ride back.

Dinner in Cusco

Enjoy dinner at one of Cusco's many excellent restaurants, perhaps trying some traditional Peruvian fusion cuisine.

Travel to Ollantaytambo

Depart from Cusco towards Ollantaytambo, a significant Inca archaeological site and a lively town in the Sacred Valley.

Can be done via public transport (collectivo), private taxi, or as part of a continued tour. Many people choose to take the train to Aguas Calientes from Ollantaytambo.

Ollantaytambo Fortress & Town

Explore the impressive Inca fortress and terracing of Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved examples of Inca architecture.

Afterwards, wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the town itself.

Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Consider climbing to the top for incredible views and to appreciate the ingenious Inca engineering.

Lunch in Ollantaytambo

Enjoy lunch in Ollantaytambo, a pleasant stop before continuing your Sacred Valley exploration.

Chinchero Village & Textile Center

Visit Chinchero, a picturesque Andean village known for its traditional weaving community.

Witness a fascinating textile demonstration showcasing ancient Inca weaving techniques and explore the Inca ruins and colonial church.

The ruins and church are part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket. The textile centers often offer high-quality alpaca products. Support local artisans!

Return to Cusco

Travel back to Cusco from Chinchero.

Enjoy the final views of the Sacred Valley as you head back to the city.

Dinner & Machu Picchu Preparation

Enjoy a hearty dinner in Cusco.

Afterwards, organize your small day-pack for Machu Picchu, as larger luggage will need to be stored at your Cusco hotel or left at the train station (check luggage allowances with your train provider).

Only small backpacks (maximum 5kg or 11lbs) are allowed on the train to Aguas Calientes. Pack essentials like passport, camera, comfortable shoes, rain gear, and a warm layer.

San Blas Neighborhood & Shopping

Spend a relaxed morning exploring the charming San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops, galleries, and narrow, winding streets. This is a great place for last-minute souvenir shopping or enjoying a coffee.

Be prepared for some uphill walking in San Blas. Visit the San Blas Church for its impressive pulpit.

Lunch in Cusco

Enjoy a final lunch in Cusco before heading to the train station for your journey to Aguas Calientes.

Travel to Ollantaytambo Train Station

Take a pre-arranged taxi or collective shuttle from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station, the main departure point for trains to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Confirm your train departure station (Poroy or Ollantaytambo). Ollantaytambo is the more common and often more scenic option. Book transport in advance.

Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes

Board your train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Enjoy the stunning scenic journey through the Sacred Valley, following the Urubamba River.

Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season. PeruRail and Inca Rail are the main operators. Remember luggage restrictions!

Check-in Aguas Calientes

Arrive in Aguas Calientes, walk to your hotel, and check in.

This small town is the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Hotels are generally within walking distance of the train station. Get settled and prepare for an early start tomorrow.

Dinner & Early Night

Have dinner in Aguas Calientes.

Most restaurants cater to tourists, offering a variety of options. Get an early night's rest to be refreshed for your visit to Machu Picchu tomorrow.

Confirm your bus tickets to Machu Picchu for tomorrow morning and plan your wake-up time. Most hotels can help with bus ticket purchases.

Bus to Machu Picchu

Take the early morning bus from Aguas Calientes up to the Machu Picchu citadel to beat the crowds and enjoy the majestic mountain views as the site opens.

Buses depart frequently. Keep your bus ticket and Machu Picchu entrance ticket ready. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Explore Machu Picchu Citadel

Embark on a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, learning about its history, architecture, and mysteries. Explore the main sectors like the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and the Terraces.

A local guide is highly recommended for historical context. Entry is typically with a timed ticket. Consider adding Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes for stunning views (requires separate booking well in advance and is time-consuming).

Return to Aguas Calientes

Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) for lunch and some relaxation after your extensive exploration.

Buses leave continuously, no specific booking needed for the return trip.

Riverside Lunch

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in Aguas Calientes, with views of the Urubamba River.

Many options available, from local eateries to more upscale dining. Expect slightly higher prices than Cusco.

Explore Aguas Calientes

Wander through the small town, browse the artisan market for souvenirs, or visit the hot springs for a relaxing dip.

The hot springs (Baños Termales) are the town's namesake; entrance fee applies.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Aguas Calientes before your journey to the Amazon begins tomorrow.

Train to Ollantaytambo/Poroy

Take the scenic train journey back from Aguas Calientes towards the Cusco area, admiring the Sacred Valley landscapes.

Your Amazon lodge transfer will pick you up at the train station.

Choose between PeruRail or Inca Rail. Ensure your train schedule aligns with your flight from Cusco.

Transfer to Cusco Airport

Private transfer from Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station directly to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco.

Flight to Puerto Maldonado

Take a domestic flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado, the bustling gateway to the Southern Peruvian Amazon.

Transfer to Amazon Lodge

Upon arrival in Puerto Maldonado, you'll be met by lodge staff and transferred by bus and motorized canoe to your Amazon lodge deep in the rainforest.

Most high-end lodges include this transfer as part of their package.

Lodge Briefing & Dinner

Receive a welcome briefing about your Amazon stay and the planned activities, followed by a delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients.

Meals are typically included in Amazon lodge packages.

Night Jungle Walk

Experience the jungle after dark on a guided walk, looking and listening for nocturnal wildlife like insects, frogs, and maybe even a tarantula.

Bring a flashlight and wear long sleeves and pants to protect against insects. Activities may vary by lodge.

Canopy Walkway & Tower

Ascend a suspended walkway system, providing an incredible perspective of the rainforest canopy and opportunities to spot canopy-dwelling birds and monkeys.

This activity offers breathtaking views and unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Wear closed-toe shoes.

Jungle Exploration Trail

Join a naturalist guide for a trek through primary rainforest, learning about the diverse flora, fauna, and medicinal plants of the Amazon.

Guides are excellent at spotting camouflaged animals. Bring insect repellent and water.

Lunch at Lodge

Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared with local ingredients at your eco-lodge.

All meals are included with your lodge stay, typically buffet style or set menus.

Madre de Dios River Excursion

Take a boat trip along the Madre de Dios River, looking for capybaras, caimans, turtles, and various bird species on the banks.

Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for boat trips.

Sunset Cruise

Enjoy the spectacular Amazonian sunset from the river, often accompanied by the sounds of the jungle coming alive.

A perfect way to relax and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dinner & Leisure

Savor dinner at the lodge, followed by free time to relax or enjoy a drink at the bar.

Lake Sandoval Excursion

Take a boat ride and a walk through a beautiful palm forest to reach Lake Sandoval, home to giant river otters, black caimans, macaws, and various bird species.

Explore the lake by catamaran.

This is a highlight for wildlife viewing. The walk can be muddy, so proper footwear is essential.

Lunch at Lodge

Return to the lodge for a hearty lunch after your morning adventure.

Hacienda Concepcion Farm Visit

Visit a local plantation and farm to learn about sustainable agriculture, local crops like cocoa, coffee, and tropical fruits, and traditional Amazonian farming practices.

Offers a glimpse into the local way of life and the economic activities of the region.

Dinner & Storytelling

Enjoy your final dinner in the Amazon, possibly accompanied by a presentation or local storytelling about the rainforest.

Optional Early Macaw Clay Lick Visit

For an early start, visit a nearby clay lick where macaws and other parrots gather to eat mineral-rich clay (seasonal and weather-dependent).

This activity is subject to early morning departures and the lodge's specific offerings and timing for your flight. Check with your guide.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy your final Amazonian breakfast before checking out of the lodge.

Transfer to Puerto Maldonado Airport

Transfer back from your lodge to Puerto Maldonado Airport (PEM) for your flight to Lima.

Lodge staff will arrange your transfer to ensure you arrive in time for your flight.

Flight to Lima

Take a domestic flight from Puerto Maldonado (PEM) back to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima.

Airport Transfer & Hotel Check-in

Upon arrival in Lima, take a private transfer to your hotel and check in for your final night in Peru.

Dinner in Miraflores

Enjoy a farewell dinner in the vibrant Miraflores district, reflecting on your incredible Peruvian journey.

Transfer to Puerto Maldonado Airport

Enjoy a final Amazonian breakfast before transferring to Padre Aldamiz International Airport (PEM) for your flight back to Lima.

Confirm transfer details with your Amazon lodge or tour operator the day before. Aim to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before your domestic flight.

Flight to Lima

Board your domestic flight from Puerto Maldonado to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima.

Flights are usually direct and offer scenic views of the changing landscapes. Consider booking a window seat.

Airport Transfer to Lima Accommodation/City

Upon arrival at Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), enjoy a private transfer to your selected temporary accommodation or a convenient city spot if you have time before your international flight.

This pre-booked transfer ensures a smooth and comfortable journey after your flight.

Farewell Peruvian Lunch

Savor one last authentic Peruvian meal at a restaurant near the airport or in a convenient district like Miraflores, depending on your international flight schedule.

Indulge in ceviche, lomo saltado, or a refreshing pisco sour.

If time is tight, opt for a quick, delicious meal at the airport itself. Otherwise, a final meal in Miraflores offers more options and a pleasant atmosphere.

International Departure from Lima

Head to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) for check-in and security for your international flight, concluding your incredible three-week journey through Peru.

Arrive at least 3 hours prior to your international flight departure time. Allow extra time for potential traffic to the airport.