Lima, Peru - 16 Days Itinerary

Arrive in Lima

Arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM).

After clearing customs and immigration, transfer to your hotel in the Miraflores district. Take some time to settle in and relax after your long journey.

Stroll Miraflores Malecón

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beautiful Malecón, a clifftop promenade offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Visit Parque del Amor with its iconic 'El Beso' statue.

Great spot for sunset photos. Keep an eye out for paragliders launching from the cliffs.

Dinner in Miraflores

Savor your first Peruvian dinner in Miraflores.

Consider trying a local cebicheria or a restaurant offering traditional Peruvian dishes like Lomo Saltado.

Lima is a culinary capital; don't hesitate to explore different restaurants. Reservations recommended for popular spots.

Explore Plaza Mayor

Visit the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Lima.

Explore the Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas), admire the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop's Palace. Consider a guided walking tour for deeper insights.

The changing of the guard at the Government Palace often happens around noon. Dress respectfully for cathedral visits.

San Francisco Monastery & Catacombs

Descend into the fascinating catacombs beneath the Monastery of San Francisco, home to thousands of human bones.

Explore the stunning library and beautiful courtyards of the monastery.

Guided tours are mandatory and often conducted in multiple languages. Photography is generally not allowed inside the catacombs.

Peruvian Culinary Experience

Engage in a hands-on Peruvian cooking class or a specialized food tour to delve deeper into Lima's gastronomic delights.

Learn to prepare ceviche, pisco sours, and other local favorites.

Numerous options are available; book in advance. Many tours operate in Miraflores or Barranco.

Explore Barranco District

Discover Barranco, Lima's bohemian district known for its colorful colonial mansions, street art, art galleries, and the romantic Bridge of Sighs.

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and ocean views.

Ideal for a leisurely walk. Explore the side streets for hidden murals and artisan shops. Many cafes offer great coffee and pastries.

Visit Huaca Pucllana

Tour the impressive Huaca Pucllana, a large clay and adobe pyramid dating back to the Lima culture (200-700 AD).

This pre-Incan archaeological site is surprisingly located in the heart of Miraflores.

Guided tours are included with admission and highly recommended to understand the history. Wear comfortable shoes.

Dinner in Barranco

Enjoy dinner at one of Barranco's many charming restaurants, ranging from traditional Peruvian to international cuisine, often with live music or a lively atmosphere.

Barranco has a great nightlife scene if you wish to extend your evening with drinks.

Larco Museum Visit

Immerse yourselves in pre-Columbian art and history at the Museo Larco, housed in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of gold, silver, textiles, and ceramics, including the famous erotic pottery gallery.

The museum's café is also highly recommended for lunch with views of the beautiful gardens.

Afternoon Leisure & Shopping

Enjoy a free afternoon for leisure.

You might explore local markets, browse artisan shops for souvenirs, or relax at a cafe in Miraflores. Consider visiting Mercado Indio for crafts.

Great opportunity to pick up gifts and keepsakes. Practice your bargaining skills at some markets!

Sunset Dinner overlooking the Pacific

Indulge in a special dinner at a restaurant with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, celebrating your time in Lima.

Consider restaurants along the Malecón or in Larcomar shopping center.

Reservations highly recommended, especially for tables with ocean views, to catch the sunset.

Visit Mercado de Surquillo No. 1

Experience an authentic local market.

Mercado de Surquillo No. 1 is known for its fresh produce, seafood, and a lively atmosphere. It's a great place to see local life and try exotic fruits.

Walkable from parts of Miraflores or a short taxi ride. You can find some excellent and affordable ceviche stands here.

Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI)

Explore the Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI), located in the beautiful Palacio de la Exposición.

It houses an extensive collection of Peruvian art from pre-Columbian times to the present day.

A good way to understand the artistic evolution of Peru. Check for special exhibitions.

Relaxation & Packing

Return to your hotel for some downtime.

This is a good opportunity to organize your belongings, pack for your onward journey to Cusco, and relax before the next leg of your adventure.

Ensure you have everything ready for an early start tomorrow.

Arrival in Cusco & Transfer

Arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco.

You will be transferred to your hotel. The transfer from the airport is usually about 15-20 minutes.

Cusco is at a high altitude (3,400m / 11,200ft). Take it easy, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival to help acclimatize. Coca tea is often provided and can help.

Hotel Check-in & Rest

Check into your hotel and take some time to rest and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.

Avoid heavy meals.

It's crucial to relax on your first day. Listen to your body and avoid rushing. Light snacks are fine, but save big meals for later.

Gentle Plaza de Armas Stroll

Take a gentle walk around Cusco's Plaza de Armas, admiring the colonial architecture and soaking in the atmosphere.

This is a good way to start exploring without overexerting yourselves.

The plaza is the heart of Cusco. Many restaurants and shops are located around it. Remember to walk slowly and breathe deeply.

Early Dinner in Cusco

Enjoy a light, early dinner at a restaurant near your hotel.

Peruvian cuisine offers many delicious and healthy options.

Try local specialties like quinoa soup. Avoid alcohol on your first night to aid acclimatization.

Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

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

See the impressive Inca stonework fused with Spanish colonial architecture of the Santo Domingo Convent built on its foundations.

Entry requires the Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket) or individual entry fee. Dress respectfully.

Cusco Cathedral

Explore the magnificent Cusco Cathedral, a stunning example of colonial architecture built on the site of the former Inca Viracocha palace.

Marvel at its intricate altars, paintings from the Cusco School of art, and silverwork.

Entry fee required. Photography is often not permitted inside. Combine with a walk around the Plaza de Armas.

Lunch in Cusco

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Many options around the Plaza de Armas and in the San Blas neighborhood.

Try 'lomo saltado' or 'aji de gallina' for a taste of traditional Peruvian food.

Cusco Archaeological Sites Tour

Embark on a guided tour to the impressive Inca ruins just outside Cusco, including the massive fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the ceremonial site of Q'enqo, the military outpost of Puka Pukara, and the Inca baths of Tambomachay.

This tour typically requires a Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket) for entry to the sites. Many local tour operators offer this afternoon circuit. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Evening in San Blas

Wander through the charming, bohemian San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops, narrow streets, and picturesque views of Cusco. Find a cozy spot for dinner.

Great place to find unique crafts and local art. Be aware that the streets are steep.

Full-Day Sacred Valley Tour

Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Your journey will include visits to the traditional Pisac Market (especially vibrant on Tuesdays), the Pisac archaeological complex, and the magnificent Inca fortress and town of Ollantaytambo.

This is a full-day excursion. Wear layers, as weather can change. Bring your Boleto Turístico. Lunch is usually included or available at a stop. Consider booking with Kuoda Travel or South Adventure Peru Tours for a customized experience.

Return to Cusco & Dinner

After a long day of exploring, return to Cusco.

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

You might be tired from the day's travel and sightseeing, so consider a relaxed dinner close to your hotel.

Train to Aguas Calientes

An early start for your journey to Machu Picchu.

Take a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo (or Poroy station near Cusco) through the Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Bus to Machu Picchu Citadel

From Aguas Calientes, take a short but winding bus ride up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel.

Bus tickets should be purchased in Aguas Calientes the day before or morning of. They run frequently.

Explore Machu Picchu Citadel

Spend hours exploring the awe-inspiring Lost City of the Incas with a licensed guide.

Discover its temples, terraces, and stunning panoramic views. Learn about its history and purpose.

Entry to Machu Picchu requires timed tickets booked far in advance. Hiring a guide is mandatory for your first entry. Bring your passport and water. Use the designated circuits. Consider a tour operator like Kuoda Travel for a seamless experience.

Lunch in Aguas Calientes

After descending from Machu Picchu, enjoy a well-deserved lunch in Aguas Calientes.

Many restaurants catering to tourists are available. Prices can be a bit higher here.

Train & Transfer Back to Cusco

Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, then board your return train to Ollantaytambo (or Poroy), followed by a transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.

You'll be tired but filled with incredible memories!

Moray & Maras Salt Mines Tour

Take a half-day tour to the unique Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to be an experimental farm.

Afterward, visit the Maras Salt Mines, an impressive collection of thousands of salt pans that have been harvested since Inca times.

These sites are typically visited together. Maras requires an entry fee, Moray is often part of the Boleto Turístico. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.

Lunch in Cusco

Enjoy a final lunch in Cusco, perhaps trying a restaurant you haven't visited yet.

Free Time & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy some free time in Cusco for relaxation, exploring any missed spots, or last-minute souvenir shopping.

The San Pedro Market is a great place for local crafts.

Consider picking up some alpaca wool goods or local artwork as mementos.

Farewell Dinner in Cusco

Savor a farewell dinner in Cusco, reflecting on your incredible journey through the Inca heartland.

Many fine dining options are available if you wish to splurge a bit on your last night in Cusco.

Scenic Bus to Puno

Embark on a full-day scenic bus journey from Cusco to Puno.

This tourist bus route (often called 'Ruta del Sol') includes stops at significant pre-Inca and Inca sites, allowing for cultural immersion along the way. Enjoy the changing Andean landscapes.

Companies like Peru Hop or Inka Express offer these cultural tourist buses with guided stops. Lunch is usually included. Bring snacks, water, and warm layers as temperatures vary.

Check-in at Lake Titicaca Lodge

Arrive in Puno and transfer by boat to your unique accommodation on the Uros Floating Islands, Titicaca Lodge Peru, for an immersive experience.

The lodge will arrange a transfer from the Puno port. Be prepared for a basic but authentic experience on the floating islands.

Dinner & Stargazing on Uros

Enjoy a traditional dinner prepared by your hosts at the lodge, followed by an opportunity for stargazing over Lake Titicaca, away from city lights.

Dinner is typically included with your stay at the lodge.

Uros Floating Islands Culture

Experience daily life on the Uros Floating Islands.

Learn about the Uru people's unique way of life, their history, and how they construct and maintain their reed islands.

Often part of the lodge experience or a morning tour. Prepare for sunny weather on the lake and bring small bills for artisan crafts.

Taquile Island Visit

Take a boat trip to Taquile Island, known for its friendly inhabitants, pre-Incan ruins, and intricate hand-woven textiles recognized by UNESCO.

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lake Titicaca.

This involves a short hike up to the village; wear comfortable shoes. Lunch with a local family is often included in tours.

Return to Lodge & Relaxation

Boat trip back to your Uros lodge.

Spend the late afternoon relaxing, reflecting on the day's cultural insights, and enjoying the tranquility of the lake.

Altitude sickness can be a concern at this elevation (approx. 3,800m or 12,500ft). Hydrate well and take it easy.

Sunset over Lake Titicaca

Witness a breathtaking sunset over the vast expanse of Lake Titicaca from your lodge, a perfect way to end a day of exploration.

Bring a camera for stunning photos. Temperatures drop quickly after sunset.

Travel to La Paz (via Copacabana)

Take a tourist bus from Puno to La Paz, Bolivia, via the scenic route through Copacabana.

The journey includes crossing the Peruvian-Bolivian border and a brief stop in Copacabana on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca.

Bolivia Hop is an excellent option for this route, offering assistance at the border and a stop in Copacabana. Remember to get your exit stamp from Peru and entry stamp for Bolivia. The time zone changes from Peru (GMT-5) to Bolivia (GMT-4), so you lose an hour.

Visit Copacabana

Stop in the charming town of Copacabana, home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, a significant pilgrimage site.

Enjoy views of Lake Titicaca before continuing to La Paz.

Opportunity to stretch your legs, visit the basilica, and grab a quick snack.

Check-in La Paz Hotel

Arrive in La Paz, often regarded as the highest de facto capital city in the world.

Transfer to your hotel and check in.

La Paz is at a very high altitude (approx. 3,650m or 11,975ft). Take it easy, hydrate, and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival to aid acclimatization.

Dinner in El Prado

Enjoy a relaxing dinner in the El Prado area of La Paz, a central boulevard with various dining options.

Choose a restaurant serving traditional Bolivian cuisine.

Try 'Sopa de Maní' (peanut soup) or 'Pique Macho'. Be mindful of rich foods on your first night at altitude.

Explore Witches' Market

Visit the Mercado de las Brujas (Witches' Market), a unique and intriguing market where Aymara healers sell traditional remedies, herbs, and offerings.

A fascinating cultural experience. Be respectful when taking photos. You might see dried llama fetuses, which are offerings for Pachamama (Mother Earth).

San Francisco Church & Museum

Explore the magnificent Basílica de San Francisco, a colonial-era church with a rich history and impressive architecture.

Consider visiting its adjacent museum for a deeper dive into its past.

Climb to the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.

Mi Teleférico Scenic Ride

Experience La Paz's innovative cable car system, Mi Teleférico.

Take a few lines (e.g., Red, Yellow, Green) for breathtaking views of the city, mountains, and local neighborhoods.

This is a must-do in La Paz. It offers incredible perspectives and is a cheap, efficient way to get around the sprawling city.

Killi Killi Viewpoint

Visit the Mirador Killi Killi, one of La Paz's best viewpoints, offering a 360-degree panorama of the city and its surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Accessible by taxi or a walk from some cable car stations. A great spot for sunset photos.

Dinner in Sopocachi

Head to the trendy Sopocachi neighborhood for dinner.

This area is known for its diverse restaurants, cafes, and lively evening atmosphere.

Sopocachi offers everything from traditional Bolivian to international cuisine.

National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore

Delve deeper into Bolivian culture at the Museo Nacional de Etnografía y Folklore (MUSEF).

Explore exhibits on indigenous textiles, traditional music, and cultural practices.

A well-curated museum providing excellent insights into Bolivia's diverse ethnic groups and cultural heritage.

Souvenir Shopping on Sagarnaga Street

Wander down Calle Sagarnaga, a bustling street known for its artisan shops, where you can find unique Bolivian handicrafts, textiles, alpaca clothing, and souvenirs.

A great place to pick up gifts and mementos from your trip. Don't be afraid to haggle gently.

Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)

Take an afternoon excursion to Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), a unique geological formation just outside La Paz.

Explore the bizarre, moon-like landscape created by erosion.

Easily accessible by taxi. There are designated walking paths to explore the formations. Bring water and sunscreen.

Farewell Dinner in La Paz

Enjoy a special farewell dinner, savoring your last evening in La Paz.

Choose a restaurant that offers a culinary highlight of your Bolivian adventure.

Consider a restaurant with live music for a memorable final night.

Breakfast & Hotel Check-out

Enjoy a final Bolivian breakfast at your hotel.

Ensure all your belongings are packed and complete the check-out process.

Confirm your airport transfer timing with the hotel reception. Settle any outstanding bills.

Last-Minute Souvenirs

Visit a local market or artisanal shops for any last-minute souvenirs or gifts you may wish to purchase.

The Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas) is nearby and offers unique local crafts and traditional remedies.

Remember to bargain politely if shopping in traditional markets. Look for alpaca wool products, local textiles, or unique Bolivian art.

Transfer to El Alto Airport

Depart from your hotel via pre-arranged transfer or taxi to El Alto International Airport (LPB) for your flight back home.

Allow ample time for travel to the airport due to La Paz's altitude and potential traffic.

Airport Check-in & Departure

Complete check-in procedures, pass through security, and await your flight back to Brisbane.

Reflect on your incredible journey through Peru and Bolivia.

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport, boarding passes, and any visa confirmations. Duty-free shopping is available.