WhyYou’ll Love This Tour
Epic Landscapes, One Journey
Lima’s flavors, Amazon wildlife & Andean wonders.
Meet Peru Up Close
Markets, communities & rich local traditions.
Stress-Free Adventure
Expert guides, smooth logistics & unique stays.
Overview
Experience the absolute best of Peru tour with our signature 10 day travel itinerary in Peru. This journey is meticulously designed to connect the culinary magic of Lima with the wild Amazon of Puerto Maldonado and the ancient majesty of Cusco. Built on our motto of “German precision, Peruvian passion,” we combine flawless logistical reliability with the soulful energy of our local roots. With over 1,500+ 5-star reviews, this Peru itinerary of 10 days offers a perfect balance of iconic landmarks and authentic experiences that most travelers never encounter.
The Gateway to Wildlife: Lima and the Amazon Rainforest
This 10 days in Peru itinerary is one of the most popular ones of our cultural itineraries. You begin in the coastal capital of Lima before you fly deep into the Amazon basin. Unlike generic packages, our optimized itineraries ensure you maximize wildlife spotting in Puerto Maldonado while minimizing transit stress. Here, we apply “German precision” to jungle logistics (from safety to timing) while our local guides share their “Peruvian passion” for the rainforest’s biodiversity. It’s the perfect start for those wondering how to spend 10 days in Peru to see both the coast and the jungle in a single trip.
Andean Heritage: Avoiding the Crowds in the Sacred Valley
From the jungle, you will ascend to the historic heights of Cusco. To ensure your comfort, we head straight to the lower altitudes of the Sacred Valley to facilitate acclimatization. Our secret is our ability to avoid the crowds; we visit the Maras salt mines and Moray terraces at off-peak hours for a serene experience. Because our journeys are 100% customizable tours, we can tailor your 10 day Peru tour to include private encounters with local communities, providing a level of intimacy and cultural depth that defines the best 10 day Peru itinerary.
The Magic of Machu Picchu and Incan History
The centerpiece of any 10 day travel itinerary peru is the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. Before your visit, you will explore the “Living Inca City” of Ollantaytambo, where ancient streets still serve as the foundation for modern life. Our expert guides provide a deep dive into Incan architecture and engineering, turning a simple visit into a profound cultural connection. We handle the complex train and entry logistics with total precision, ensuring you experience this world wonder without the typical logistical headaches, making the best of our most popular one of our 10-day Peru itineraries.
Adventure and Customization: Tailoring Your Final Days
To conclude your best of Peru journey, we offer optional high-altitude adventures like Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake. Every detail is managed with meticulous planning to ensure you arrive ahead of the large tourist buses. Whether you choose a rugged trek or a cultural exploration of Cusco’s colonial streets, our Peru itinerary of 10 days is designed to be flexible. We focus on providing a well-paced immersion that captures the true essence of the country, backed by the reliability and passion that has earned us our reputation for excellence.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1 : Arrival in Lima
- Day 2 : Lima Half-Day City Tour & Culinary Experience
- Day 3 : Flight to Puerto Maldonado & Amazon Adventure
- Day 4 : Puerto Maldonado Amazon Adventure Day 2
- Day 5 : Flight to Cusco & Transfer to Sacred Valley
- Day 6 : Sacred Valley with Train To Aguas Calientes
- Day 7 : Machu Picchu With Optional Overnight at Mountain View Experience
- Day 8 : Return to Cusco & Half-Day City Tour
- Day 9 : Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca
- Day 10 : Outbound
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Lima
Today’s Highlight: Settle into Lima and unwind as you ease into your Peruvian journey.
Upon your arrival in Lima, our local team will await you at the airport and provide a seamless transfer to your hotel. Once settled in, take some time to unwind and explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
No meals included
Overnight in Lima
Optional: Add our Lima half-day city tour and explore the city’s beautiful neighborhoods, local markets and more.
Day 2 : Lima Half-Day City Tour & Culinary Experience
Today’s Highlight: Discover Lima’s historic heart and dive into its vibrant culinary scene.
Begin your adventure with a guided half-day city tour, exploring Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the charming streets, admire colonial-era architecture, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Plaza Mayor and San Francisco Monastery.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Lima’s renowned food scene with a culinary experience. Discover a bustling local market, sample exotic Peruvian fruits, and participate in a hands-on cooking session to prepare traditional dishes like ceviche.
Breakfast & lunch included
Overnight in Lima
Day 3 : Flight to Puerto Maldonado & Amazon Adventure
Today’s Highlight: Journey deep into the Amazon by river and spot wildlife at sunset.
Early in the morning, you’ll be transferred to the airport in Lima for your flight to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival, our team will welcome you and take you to the office to store any extra luggage. Then, enjoy a scenic two-hour boat ride along the Lower Madre de Dios River, spotting wildlife along the way.
In the afternoon, explore Cocha Caimán, where you can observe black and white caimans. As the sun sets, take in the breathtaking Amazon views before returning to the lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening at the bar.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Overnight in Puerto Maldonado
Day 4 : Puerto Maldonado Amazon Adventure Day 2
Today’s Highlight: Explore jungle trails, lakes, and monkey-filled islands in the Amazon.
Start your day with the sounds of the Amazon and a hearty breakfast before trekking through the rainforest to Apu Víctor Lake. From the viewpoint, enjoy panoramic views and spot wildlife like parrots, macaws, toucans, caimans, and possibly Giant Otters.
After lunch at the lodge, visit Monkey Island, where you’ll observe playful primates in their natural habitat. End the day with a stunning sunset and a relaxing evening at the lodge.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Overnight in Puerto Maldonado
Day 5 : Flight to Cusco & Transfer to Sacred Valley
Today’s Highlight: Fly to Cusco and explore the Pisac Ruins while adjusting to the Andes.
After breakfast, take a scenic boat ride back to Puerto Maldonado, where you’ll collect your luggage before heading to the airport for your flight to Cusco.
Upon arrival, descend into the Sacred Valley, allowing time to acclimate to the altitude. Along the way, visit the Pisac Ruins, an ancient Incan site with impressive terraces and stunning panoramic views of the valley.
Breakfast & lunch included
Overnight in Cusco
Day 6 : Sacred Valley with Train To Aguas Calientes
Today’s Highlight: Visit Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo before boarding the Machu Picchu train.
Explore the Salt Mines of Maras, the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo, and the circular agricultural terraces of Moray. Enjoy a delicious lunch with stunning Andean views, visit a lively textile center, and taste Chicha, a traditional Inca corn beer.
At the end of the tour, board the train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in preparation for an early visit to Machu Picchu before the crowds arrive.
Breakfast & lunch included
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Day 7 : Machu Picchu With Optional Overnight at Mountain View Experience
Today’s Highlight: Experience Machu Picchu with a private guide and unforgettable mountain views.
Begin your day with a private tour of Machu Picchu, uncovering the secrets of this ancient place. Our local expert guide will lead you to the best spots where you can take your unforgettable picture and absorb the unique atmosphere.
After exploring its breathtaking ruins, take the train back to Ollantaytambo and continue to Cusco. Optionally, stay at the Mountain View Lodge to enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes, with unique opportunities to interact with alpacas and llamas.
Breakfast & lunch included
Overnight in Cusco or Mountain View
Day 8 : Return to Cusco & Half-Day City Tour
Today’s Highlight: Explore Cusco’s temples, markets, plazas, and Inca ruins.
After a scenic journey back to Cusco, enjoy a fascinating afternoon city tour. Explore the highlights of this historic city, including its colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and fascinating Inca ruins, all while soaking in the rich cultural heritage of Cusco.
Breakfast & lunch included
Overnight in Cusco
Day 9 : Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca
Today’s Highlight: Reach Rainbow Mountain early and enjoy its vibrant colors in morning calm.
Set out on an early morning adventure and soak in the tranquility of the Andes. Marvel at the breathtaking Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, where vibrant red landscapes blend with sightings of llamas and alpacas.
With our tour, you’ll be among the first to reach the summit, avoiding the crowds for a truly exclusive and unforgettable experience.
Breakfast & lunch included
Overnight in Cusco
Day 10 : Outbound
Today’s Highlight: Revisit Cusco’s iconic sites before your farewell flight home.
After a relaxing morning and a delicious breakfast at Mountain View Lodge, you’ll return to Cusco in the late morning.
In the afternoon, embark on a half-day Cusco city tour, exploring the historic Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the artistic San Blas district, and the vibrant San Pedro Market. End your tour at Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca fortress with breathtaking views over Cusco.
Breakfast & lunch included
Overnight in Cusco
- Included
- Airport transfers with our staff accompanying you
- All tours stated in the itinerary with fluent English speaking licensed local guides
- Private tours with all entrance tickets
- Hotels with breakfast if selected
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary above (vegan and vegetarian options available). We eat in some of the best restaurants in the area.
- Trekking pole, first aid kit and oxygen for the hikes
- Welcome kit and virtual support during your trip
- Not Included
- Domestic and international flights (domestic flights will be added in the quote if desired)
- Personal expenses and tips
- Services not mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals not specified
- Travel insurance
Prices
Based on double/triple occupancy and the hotels mentioned below or similar ones in the same category.
- Service
- Comfortable 3-start hotels
- Standard train to Machu Picchu
- Shared/private transfers
- Daily breakfast
- Service
- Upgraded 4-start hotels
- Vistadome train to Machu Picchu
- More comfortable transport
- Restaurant upgrades
- Service
- Luxury 5-start hotels
- Hiram Bingham train (optional)
- VIP private transfers
- Exclusive experiences
Hotels
JW Marriott
- 250 m from the oceanfront
JW Marriott Miraflores offers ocean-view rooms, excellent dining, and a well-equipped gym, in a prime waterfront location beside Larcomar for an upscale stay.
Souma Miraflores
- 650 m from Parque Kennedy
Souma Miraflores offers modern comfort near Parque Kennedy and Larcomar, with air-conditioned rooms, outdoor pool, fitness center, rooftop terrace, restaurant, and convenient access to Lima’s highlights.
Lima 18 Boutique Hotel
- Steps from Huaca Pucllana
Lima 18 Boutique offers charming, intimate accommodation in the heart of Miraflores, with just 11 air-conditioned rooms featuring curated artwork and modern touches, a serene garden terrace, complimentary à la carte breakfast, and attentive personalized service — all within walking distance of Parque Kennedy, Huaca Pucllana, and Larcomar.
Tambo Del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
- Next to Urubamba River
Tambo del Inka is a luxury Sacred Valley resort with a private train station to Machu Picchu, elegant rooms with local details, a spa, pool, and stunning mountain views.
Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado
- 11 km from Ollantaytambo
Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley offers mountain views near Ollantaytambo, with a spa, outdoor activities, gardens, playgrounds, and an observatory for relaxed stargazing.
Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado
- 11 km to Ollantaytambo
This hotel offers 36 spacious rooms with warm wood and stone accents, lush gardens, Andean mountain views, and an on-site sauna for a relaxing retreat.
Palacio del Inka Luxury Collection
- 500 m from Plaza de Armas (main square)
Palacio del Inka, beside the Koricancha Temple, is a luxury hotel built on original Inca foundations, featuring stunning colonial architecture and guided historical tours.
Novotel
- 350 m from Plaza de Armas (main Square)
Novotel Cusco, set in a restored 16th-century building just three blocks from the main square, offers modern comfort, local charm, and a heated courtyard for relaxing.
Rumi Punku
- 300 m away from Plaza de Armas (main square)
Hotel Rumi Punku is a charming 3-star stay just 300m from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, offering cozy rooms with private bathrooms and cable TV, free WiFi, and a traditional courtyard garden.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
- 250 m from the oceanfront
Inkaterra El Pueblo sits at the foot of Machu Picchu near the train station, offering upscale comfort, lush nature, and an immersive stay for your visit.
Casa del Sol Machu Picchu
- Next to train station
Casa del Sol Machu Picchu is a luxury retreat near the train station, with elegant rooms, modern comforts, private bathrooms, mini-bars, satellite TV, luggage storage, and attentive concierge service.
Tierra Viva Machu Picchu
- 5 min from the bus station
Tierra Viva Cusco Machu Picchu offers peaceful rooms with cable TV, mini-bars, and private bathrooms, some with hillside views, plus a panoramic sun terrace and free WiFi, just a short walk from Machu Picchu.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 10 days in Peru enough to see the highlights?
Absolutely. Is 10 days in peru enough is a common question; while the country is vast, this timeframe allows you to comfortably visit Lima, the Amazon, and the Cusco region (including Machu Picchu) if you use internal flights and optimized itineraries.
How to spend 10 days in Peru to see the Amazon and Machu Picchu?
The most efficient way is to fly from Lima to Puerto Maldonado (Amazon), then fly to Cusco. This route minimizes travel time and maximizes your time exploring the jungle and the Incan ruins.
What to do in Peru for 10 days if I want to avoid crowds?
Focus on the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu but ensure your operator uses “off-peak” timing. We specialize in scheduling visits when the large coach tours are not present, offering a much more private experience.
How much of the tour is customizable?
We offer 100% customizable tours. You can choose to add extra nights in the Amazon, upgrade your train to the Hiram Bingham, or swap a strenuous hike for a relaxed culinary tour in Cusco.
