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Peru 7 Day Itinerary: HOW TO SPEND 1 WEEK IN PERU

Peru is a country that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest, there is no shortage of tourist attractions in Peru to see and do. For those who want to experience the best of Peru in a short amount of time, a 7-day itinerary is a great option. This article will provide an overview of what to expect on a 7-day trip to Peru. I hope it helps, there are a lot of things to do in Peru, but with the right research, one week can be the sweet spot.

A 7-day itinerary in Peru typically includes Peru tours to Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. If it’s too much planning for yourself, Exploor Peru are a great option for trips here. Lima is the capital and largest city in Peru, known for its vibrant food scene and colonial architecture. Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a city that is steeped in history and culture. The Sacred Valley is a region in the Andes Mountains that is home to many Inca ruins and traditional villages. Finally, Machu Picchu is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Peru. Throughout the itinerary, travelers will have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Peru, as well as experience its natural beauty and delicious cuisine.

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Excited to start their 7-day itinerary in Peru, the travelers arrive in Lima and are transferred to their hotel in the Miraflores district.

Morning

After a good night’s rest, the travelers begin their exploration of Lima with a city tour. They visit the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site, an ancient adobe pyramid that dates back to 400 AD. The guide explains the history of the site and its importance in the Lima culture.

Afternoon

Next, the travelers head to the San Pedro Market, where they immerse themselves in the local gastronomic scene. They taste the famous Pisco Sour, a Peruvian cocktail made with Pisco, lime juice, and egg whites. They also try some of the delicious Peruvian cuisine, such as ceviche, a dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and chili peppers.

Evening

In the evening, the travelers return to their hotel to relax and enjoy the amenities. They can take a stroll along the Miraflores boardwalk or dine at one of the many restaurants in the area. Overall, the first day in Lima is a great introduction to Peruvian culture and cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Cusco

After a good night’s sleep, it’s time to explore the heart of the Inca Empire. Cusco is a city full of culture, history, and gastronomy, and it’s impossible to see everything in just one day. However, this itinerary will give you a taste of what Cusco has to offer.

Morning

Start your day with a Cusco city tour. The tour usually includes a visit to the Cathedral, one of the most important religious buildings in Cusco. The Cathedral was built in the 16th century on top of an Inca palace and is a great example of colonial architecture.

After the Cathedral, head to Qorikancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun. This Inca temple was once covered in gold, and it was the most important religious site in the Inca Empire. The Spanish destroyed most of the temple and built the Church of Santo Domingo on top of it, but some of the original Inca stonework is still visible.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to San Blas, a bohemian neighborhood full of art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. Try some of the local dishes, such as ceviche or lomo saltado, and don’t forget to order a pisco sour, Peru’s national drink.

After lunch, continue your Cusco city tour and head to the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cusco. The Plaza de Armas is surrounded by colonial buildings and is a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of the city.

Evening

In the evening, take a break from the city and head to the Sacred Valley. The Sacred Valley tour usually includes a visit to Pisac, a small town known for its traditional market and Inca ruins. The tour also includes a visit to Ollantaytambo, a well-preserved Inca town with narrow streets and impressive terraces.

For dinner, try some of the local delicacies, such as alpaca steak or guinea pig. After dinner, head back to Cusco and get some rest, as the next day will be a long one.

Overall, Day 2 in Cusco is all about exploring the city’s rich culture, trying some of the local food and drinks, and getting a taste of the surrounding Sacred Valley.

Day 3: Sacred Valley Adventure

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a breathtaking region full of Inca ruins, Spanish colonial villages, and fertile farmland. On day three of the 7-day itinerary, travelers can choose their own adventure in the Sacred Valley.

Morning

One option is to visit the town of Pisac and its famous market. Here, visitors can find beautiful handmade textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. The Pisac Market is also known for its delicious food, including empanadas and chicha, a traditional Peruvian drink made from fermented corn.

Another option is to explore the Urubamba Valley, also known as the Sacred Valley. This fertile valley is home to many Inca ruins, including the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo. Visitors can climb the steep steps to the top of the fortress for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, travelers can continue their exploration of the Sacred Valley. They can visit the town of Urubamba and its surrounding countryside, which is full of beautiful scenery and traditional Peruvian villages. The Urubamba Valley is also known for its delicious food, including roasted guinea pig, a traditional Peruvian dish.

Another option is to visit the town of Ollantaytambo and its famous fortress. This ancient Inca site is one of the best-preserved examples of Inca architecture and engineering. Visitors can explore the terraces, aqueducts, and temples of the fortress, as well as the narrow streets and adobe houses of the town.

Evening

In the evening, travelers can relax and enjoy the gastronomic delights of the Sacred Valley. They can try traditional Peruvian cuisine, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina, at one of the many restaurants in the area. They can also sample local specialties, such as chicha morada, a sweet drink made from purple corn, and cuy, or roasted guinea pig.

Overall, day three of the 7-day itinerary is an exciting opportunity to explore the beauty and culture of the Sacred Valley. Whether visitors choose to visit Pisac, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo, they are sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Day 4: Journey to Machu Picchu

Excited to explore the ancient Inca civilization, on Day 4, travelers will journey to Machu Picchu, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. The journey to Machu Picchu is an adventure in itself, with stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River.

Morning

The day starts early with a train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. The train ride is a scenic journey through the Andes, passing through lush valleys and picturesque villages. The train ride takes around 3.5 hours, and travelers can enjoy breakfast on board while taking in the stunning views.

Afternoon

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, travelers will take a bus up to Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes around 30 minutes and is a winding journey up the mountain. Once at Machu Picchu, travelers will have a chance to explore the ancient Inca citadel. The site is a wonder to behold, with its intricate stonework and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Travelers can visit the Sun Gate or Huayna Picchu for even more breathtaking views.

Evening

After a day of exploring, travelers can head back to Aguas Calientes for some delicious Peruvian cuisine. The town is known for its gastronomic offerings, with many restaurants serving up traditional dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado. Travelers can also relax in the hot springs, which are a popular attraction in the town.

Overall, Day 4 is an exciting and memorable journey to Machu Picchu, offering stunning views, ancient history, and delicious food. Travelers should be sure to purchase their Machu Picchu ticket in advance to avoid missing out on this incredible experience.

Remember to choose the season correctly, for the best time to visit Machu Picchu.

Day 5: Rainbow Mountain Hike

Excited for another adventurous day, they set out early in the morning for the Rainbow Mountain hike, one of the most popular hikes in the Andes Mountains. The Rainbow Mountain, also known as Mount Vinicunca, is a natural wonder with its multi-colored stripes and stunning landscapes.

Morning

After a hearty breakfast, they were picked up by their guide and driven to the starting point of the hike. The hike is challenging, but the stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Rainbow Mountain make it all worth it. They took breaks whenever they needed to, to catch their breath and admire the magnificent views.

Afternoon

After reaching the summit of the Rainbow Mountain, they took some time to take in the breathtaking views and capture some photos. They then descended to the base of the mountain, where they enjoyed a delicious lunch of Peruvian cuisine. The food was a perfect blend of flavors and spices, which helped them regain their energy after the hike.

Evening

After lunch, they were driven back to Cusco, where they spent the evening exploring the city and trying out some more Peruvian delicacies. The gastronomic scene in Cusco is diverse, and they were able to try out some new dishes, including guinea pig, which is a popular food in Peru.

Overall, the Rainbow Mountain hike was one of the highlights of their 7-day itinerary, and they were able to experience the beauty of the Andes Mountains and the diverse landscapes and wildlife that it has to offer.

Day 6: Lake Titicaca and Puno

On day 6 of the 7-day itinerary in Peru, travelers will explore the stunning Lake Titicaca and the charming city of Puno.

Morning

The day starts early with a boat ride to Uros Island, a floating island made entirely of reeds. Here, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the Uros people and their unique way of life. They will also have the chance to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs from the locals.

Afternoon

Next, the boat will take travelers to Taquile Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional textiles and clothing. Visitors can take a guided tour of the island and learn about the local customs and traditions. They can also sample some of the delicious Peruvian cuisine, including quinoa soup and grilled trout.

Evening

In the evening, travelers will return to Puno, a city known for its rich gastronomic culture. They can explore the local markets and try some of the traditional dishes, such as ceviche and pachamanca. For a sweet treat, they can try the regional dessert, picarones.

Overall, day 6 offers a unique and exciting opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and cuisine of the Lake Titicaca and Puno region.

Day 7: Departure Day

The final day of the 7-day Peru itinerary has arrived, and it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful country. The departure day can be a bit hectic, so it’s important to have a plan in place to ensure a smooth transition.

Morning

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel in Lima, it’s time to pack up and check out. If there’s time before the flight, consider taking a final stroll around the Miraflores district to soak up the culture and architecture of this vibrant city.

Afternoon

For those with a later flight, there are still a few hours left to explore. One great option is to visit the Larco Museum, which houses a vast collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts. It’s a fascinating look into the history and culture of Peru.

Evening

Before heading to the airport, make sure to indulge in some of Peru’s famous gastronomic delights. A pisco sour is the perfect way to toast to the end of an incredible trip, and ceviche is a must-try dish. There are many great restaurants in Lima to choose from, so take some time to savor the flavors of Peru before departing.

Overall, the 7-day Peru itinerary is a fantastic way to experience the best of this beautiful country. From the bustling streets of Lima to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, there’s something for everyone. So, until next time, adios Peru!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see destinations for a 7-day Peru itinerary?

A 7-day Peru itinerary should include Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. These destinations offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

When is the best time to visit Peru? It depends, check out this blog post for that answer.

Is it possible to include the Inca Trail in a 7-day Peru itinerary?

It is possible to include the Inca Trail in a 7-day Peru itinerary, but it requires careful planning. The Inca Trail is a four-day trek, and visitors need to obtain permits well in advance.

What is the average cost of a 7-day trip to Peru?

The average cost of a 7-day trip to Peru varies depending on the traveler’s preferences and budget. A mid-range budget can expect to spend around $1,000 to $1,500, while luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of $3,000.

What are some off-the-beaten-path destinations to include in a 7-day Peru itinerary?

Some off-the-beaten-path destinations to include in a 7-day Peru itinerary are the Colca Canyon, Huacachina Oasis, and the Amazon Rainforest. These destinations offer unique experiences and are often less crowded than the popular tourist spots.

What are some tips for maximizing a 7-day trip to Peru?

To maximize a 7-day trip to Peru, travelers should prioritize their must-see destinations and plan their itinerary accordingly. It’s also important to acclimate to the altitude in Cusco before visiting Machu Picchu and to stay hydrated throughout the trip.

What are the best ways to get around Peru during a 7-day itinerary?

The best ways to get around Peru during a 7-day itinerary are by plane, train, and bus. Domestic flights are relatively affordable and can save time, while train travel offers scenic views. Buses are the most budget-friendly option but can be slower and less comfortable.