How to spend 7 days in Peru - 4 unique itineraries

A trip to Peru is akin to stepping into a living tapestry of ancient civilizations, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures. In this comprehensive guide, we unravel the secrets of planning the perfect 7-day itinerary, ensuring every moment in this South American gem is a chapter in your own adventure story. Here’s how to plan your perfect Peru 7 days itinerary. 

Is 7 days enough for Peru?

While 7 days in Peru is relatively short, it's feasible to have a rewarding experience by focusing on specific regions. 7 days is going to be a bit of a condensed itinerary that allows a glimpse into Peru's rich history and stunning landscapes. 

However, keep in mind that it's a fast-paced approach, and additional time would provide a more leisurely exploration of the diverse attractions the country has to offer.

Itinerary #1: Peru Express

On this seven-day trip, you’ll discover the rich tapestry of Peruvian culture during a captivating journey through the country. Explore the vibrant capital, Lima, the picturesque city of Cusco, and the enchanting Sacred Valley. Finally, acclimate to the high altitudes as you ascend to Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring mountain city and entrance to the ancient Incan Empire. Read more. 

Itinerary overview

Check-out this Peru 7-day itinerary.

Day 1 

• Arrival at Lima International Airport.

Day 2 

• Half-day guided sightseeing tour of Lima's attractions.
• Visit the Historical Center, Plaza San Martin, Plaza Mayor, Government Palace, City Hall, Cathedral, and Religious Art Museum.
• Explore the residential Districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, passing by Huaca Pucllana.
• Visit El Olivar Park, Central Park of Miraflores, and Larcomar.
• Stop at Larco Herrera Museum, with a private collection of pre-Columbian art and an exhibition of erotic pre-Columbian art.
• Flight to Cusco

Day 3

• Visit the Sacsayhuaman Archaeological site or Fortress for a panoramic view of the City.
• Explore the Inca Baths of Tambomachay.
• Visit Awanacancha, an Andean textile centre.
• Continue to Pisac Market for artisanal products.
• Enjoy a farm lunch at Hacienda Sarapampa, learning about corn farming.

Day 4

• Journey through the Sacred Valley to Maras Saltpans and Moray Terraces.
• Explore Maras, founded by the Spanish in 1556, and its salt fields.
• Admire Moray terraces, believed to be an agricultural laboratory.
• Visit the Inca fortress and citadel of Ollantaytambo.

Day 5

• Transfer to the train station for a journey to Machu Picchu.
• Enjoy the changing landscape from the Andean highlands to the jungle.
• Arrive at Aguas Calientes and board the bus to Machu Picchu.
• Guided tour of the Citadel and exploration of its giant walls, terraces, and ramps.

Day 6

• Guided tour of Cusco, the Imperial City, visiting Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and Santo Domingo church.
• Explore surrounding ruins: Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Qenqo Amphitheater, Puca Pucara, and the Inca Baths of Tambomachay.

Day 7

• Transfer to Cusco Airport for departure.

If this trip suits your taste, why wait? Customise your experience with our tailor-made trip service and book it today.

Itinerary #2: The Inca Empire and the Nazca Culture

Take a week long journey to uncover the richness of Peru's history and culture with this itinerary, offering a glimpse into its extraordinary charm. Soar above the enigmatic Nasca lines, explore the remarkable archaeological sites in Cusco, and delve into the mysteries of the Inca cities. Read more. 

Itinerary overview

Check out this 7-day Peru itinerary.

Day 1

• Arrive at Lima International Airport.
• Explore Lima at leisure.

Day 2

• Panoramic city tour covering Colonial Center, Main Square, Government Palace, Cathedral, and Archbishop's Palace.
• Visit the Convent of San Francisco, with cloisters and catacombs.
• Explore Huaca Pucllana, residential, and commercial areas of Lima.
• End with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and Miraflores district.

Day 3

• Transfer to Ica/Nasca airfield.
• Overflight of the mysterious Nazca lines for approximately 30 minutes.
• View giant zoomorphic and geometric figures on the desert sands.
• Transfer to the Bay of Paracas

Day 4

• Transfer to Paracas Pier for a boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands.
• Visit the giant Chandelier and observe marine fauna.
• Return to the mainland and transfer to Lima by bus.

Day 5

• Transfer to the airport for a flight to Cusco.
• Upon arrival, transfer to the selected hotel.
• Guided tour of the colonial city, including Main Square, Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral of Cusco.
• Visit archaeological sites: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo Amphitheater, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.

Day 6

• Tour to Pisac, its handicraft market, and Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.
• Enjoy a buffet lunch.
• Visit Ollantaytambo's archaeological centre.

Day 7

• Transfer to the train station for a journey to Machu Picchu.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu and free time to explore.
• Return to Cusco 
• Transfer to the airport 

Planning your trip to Peru? See our Peru itineraries for inspiration.

Itinerary #3: Miraflores and Sacred Valley

On this seven day tour, you’ll embark on a journey that includes meditative moments in Miraflores, meeting craftswomen in Chincheros, rounded off with gratitude rituals in the Sacred Valley. This itinerary offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the lives of Peruvian women. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check-out this 7-day Peru itinerary.

Day 1

• Arrival and transfer to the hotel.
• Barranco neighborhood tour.
• Visit "Puente de Los Suspiros” and main square of Barranco.
• Enjoy an entertaining dinner show with Peruvian gastronomy.

Day 2

• Tour of Miraflores, starting at an artisan bakery on La Mar avenue.
• Visit a Lima market to explore and taste native fruits.
• Panoramic tour through Miraflores and Barranco.
• Short walking tour in Barranco.
• Visit the Chorrillos neighborhood and the fishermen's wharf.
• Cooking class in a renowned seaside restaurant.
• Evening tour of the Colonial Centre, including the Main Square.
• Visit the "Magic Water Circuit," the world's largest fountain complex.
• Witness the spectacular water displays and lighting effects.

Day 3

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Free day in Lima for exploration or optional excursions.
• 5:30 p.m.: Circle of women meditation on Miraflores boardwalk.
• Enjoy the sunset as a closing activity.

Day 4

• Transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco.
• Arrival in Cusco
• Visit Main Square, Temple of the Sun, and Cusco Cathedral.
• Explore archaeological sites: Sacsayhuaman, Q'enco, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay.

Day 5 

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Excursion to Chincheros with a textile demonstration.
• Visit the Colonial Church and craft market.
• Explore Maras, Salineras Mines, and the archaeological centre of Moray.
• Luxury picnic at Belmond Río Sagrado hotel.
• Gratitude ritual to Pachamama (Mother Earth).
• Transfer to Aranwa Sacred Valley 

Day 6 

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Transfer to the train station.
• Excursion to Machu Picchu with a guided tour.
• Explore temples, squares, terraces, and biodiversity.
• Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch.
• Return to Cusco 

Day 7

• Explore Rainbow Mountain
• Departure

Our itineraries are crafted by local travel experts and can be booked right away.

Itinerary #4: Into the Incan Empire

Uncover the enigma of the Incas — who were they, what feats they achieved, and what ultimately befell them. Find the answers and delve deeper into the intriguing history of the Incan Empire with this distinctive journey. 

This 7-day itinerary includes exploring Lima's markets and historic sites, a guided tour of Cusco, kayaking, optional yoga, a trek to Machu Picchu, and a visit to the traditional town of Lamay in the Sacred Valley. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check out this Peru 7 days itinerary.

Day 1

• Arrival at Lima International Airport.
• Transfer to the hotel with check-in assistance.
• Leisure time

Day 2

• Visit a local market in the San Isidro District.
• Learn about fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and seafood used in Peruvian dishes.
• Explore Lima downtown, including Plaza Mayor and historical sites.
• Stop at El Cordano bar for traditional dishes.
• Visit the choco-museum for a personalized tour.
• Continue to El Bolivariano Restaurant for a typical Peruvian meal.
• Conclude the day with a visit to Yitzhak Rabin Park.

Day 3

• Guided tour of Barranco, the bohemian heart of Lima.
• Visit the wooden Puente de Los Suspiros.
• Explore the Pedro de Osma Museum in the old Osma family residence.
• Guided tour of Cusco, the Imperial City.
• Visit Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and Santo Domingo church.

Day 4

• Welcome station for hot drinks, water, and snacks.
• Relax and enjoy the surroundings.
• Receive equipment for Kayak or Paddle.
• Safety briefing and paddling technique.
• Optional 20-minute yoga session and ice water immersion.

Day 5

• Pickup from the hotel for a train ride to Chachabamba.
• Hike through ancient Inca steps to Wiñayhuayna.
• Lunch at Wiñayhuayna and continue to Inti Punku or Sun Gate.
• Hike down to the Machu Picchu entrance, and take a bus to Aguas Calientes.

Day 6

• Pickup from the hotel for a bus ride to Machu Picchu.
• Explore Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas.
• Afternoon free time in Aguas Calientes.
• Evening train ride to Ollantaytambo and stay in the Sacred Valley.

Day 7 

• Visit Lamay, a traditional and less touristy town in the Sacred Valley.
• Interpretation of local activities and agricultural work.
• Explore traditional houses and local businesses.
• Return to La Base for coffee or beer 

Prepare for your 7 day Peru  itinerary

Inspired to vist Peru? Arm yourself with info on the best time to visit Peru, top activities in the region, and browse additional Peru itineraries.

If you'd rather skip the hours of research and planning needed to create your dream trip, check out our tailor-made trip service. Our trips are fully customsisable and offer a fully personalised experience.

Places to visit on a 7-day Peru itinerary

From the bustling capital city of Lima to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, and the charming city of Cusco, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some places to visit on your 7-day Peruvian tour. 

Lima

Lima, Peru's capital and largest city, offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. The UNESCO-listed Historic Center is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, featuring landmarks such as the Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of Lima. In the trendy district of Miraflores, visitors can experience upscale shopping, vibrant nightlife, and the scenic Malecón boardwalk along the Pacific Ocean.

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley, or Valle Sagrado, is a picturesque region near Cusco characterized by terraced fields and ancient archaeological sites. Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress with well-preserved terraces and temples, stands as a testament to Incan urban planning. The vibrant Pisac Market and the archaeological site of Pisac, nestled high in the hills, showcase the valley's rich cultural heritage.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel, is an iconic destination nestled high in the Andes Mountains. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu captivates travellers with its mystical aura. Hiking to the Sun Gate offers a breathtaking panoramic view, while the adventurous can climb Huayna Picchu for a challenging but rewarding experience.

Cusco

Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, serves as the historic heart of Peru. The Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial architecture and the Cusco Cathedral, is a central point of beauty and activity. The Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán, overlooking Cusco, showcases incredible stone masonry and provides a glimpse into the city's rich cultural and historical significance.