Peru Itinerary 13 Days: Coast, Andes & Machu Picchu

Lima Arrival & Peruvian Food Tour

Your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru starts the moment you land in Lima, the vibrant coastal capital renowned for its culinary scene. After your airport pick-up and hotel check-in in the Miraflores district, you’ll join a guided Lima gastronomy tour—a perfect introduction to Peru’s flavors and local culture.

Begin with a visit to a traditional Peruvian local market, where your guide will introduce you to the rich variety of native fruits. Taste exotic flavors like chirimoya, lucuma, aguaymanto, local cacao, and fresh Andean berries while learning about Peru’s unique biodiversity.

Next, you’ll head to a well-known Lima restaurant where a local chef will demonstrate how to prepare Peru’s iconic ceviche and the classic pisco sour cocktail. You’ll discover what makes these recipes so fresh, simple, and famous worldwide.

To finish your culinary adventure, enjoy a delicious lunch at La Sirena Resto Bar in Chorrillos—a favorite spot with panoramic ocean views, where you can relax and savor freshly caught seafood right on Lima’s Pacific coast.

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to stroll the Malecón cliffs, explore Miraflores or Barranco’s artistic streets, or simply rest and get ready for tomorrow’s journey along the south coast to Paracas.

Paracas, Ica & Huacachina Oasis

Your second day on this Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru starts with an early morning departure from Lima, heading south along the scenic Pan-American Highway toward Paracas, a small coastal town famous for its marine life and desert landscapes.

Upon arrival, you’ll board a speedboat to visit the Ballestas Islands, often called the Poor Man’s Galápagos. Here, you’ll get up close to playful sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and hundreds of seabirds that nest along the rugged cliffs. Along the way, your guide will point out the enigmatic Candelabra geoglyph, an ancient figure etched into the coastal hillside, visible only from the sea.

After returning to shore, continue by road to Ica, the heart of Peru’s wine and pisco production. You’ll visit a local vineyard for a quick tasting session, learning how Peru’s national spirit is crafted.

In the afternoon, the adventure continues at the stunning Huacachina Oasis, a natural lagoon surrounded by massive desert dunes. Here, you’ll climb into a dune buggy for an exhilarating ride over the sand hills, finishing with a chance to try sandboarding—the ultimate adrenaline rush in the Peruvian desert.

As the sun sets, enjoy free time to relax by the oasis lagoon or grab a cold drink at one of the local bars before returning to your hotel in Ica for the night. Rest well—tomorrow’s Nazca adventure will be another highlight of this unforgettable 13-day journey through Peru.

Nazca Lines Flyover & Ica Return

Day 3 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru begins with breakfast in Ica, followed by a short transfer to the local Nazca airfield, where you’ll board a small aircraft for one of the most iconic experiences on Peru’s southern coast: the Nazca Lines flyover.

Before takeoff, your guide will explain the mysterious origins of these ancient geoglyphs—massive figures etched into the desert floor over 1,500 years ago by the Nazca civilization. The flight lasts about 30–35 minutes, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the most famous shapes: the Hummingbird, the Monkey, the Astronaut, the Hands, the Condor, and many more.

During the flight, each passenger has a window seat to ensure clear views and the best photo opportunities. Your pilot will circle the lines on both sides so everyone gets equal views—don’t forget your camera!

After landing, enjoy some time to visit the small Nazca museum or shop for local crafts. Later, you’ll travel back toward Ica for a relaxing afternoon. Depending on the time, you can visit a local winery, explore the town’s colonial churches, or simply rest at your hotel in preparation for your overnight bus or connecting transport to Arequipa, the next stop on your journey through Peru’s dramatic landscapes.

Arequipa City Tour & Scenic Viewpoints

Day 4 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru explores Arequipa, Peru’s iconic “White City.” After breakfast, meet your local guide to discover the elegant Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial arcades and the grand Cathedral of Arequipa, built from white volcanic stone.

You’ll visit the Carmen Alto viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the city framed by the majestic Misti and Chachani volcanoes. Next, head to the charming Yanahuara viewpoint, famous for its stone arches and classic postcard views of Arequipa’s rooftops.

To complete your city tour, step inside the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a beautifully preserved 16th-century convent. Walk its vivid streets, quiet cloisters, and flower-filled courtyards—a living museum of colonial history.

The afternoon is free to relax, enjoy local food at a traditional picantería, or prepare for tomorrow’s journey through the spectacular Colca Canyon.

Arequipa to Colca Canyon & Hot Springs

Day 5 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru takes you from Arequipa into the spectacular Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons and home to traditional Andean villages and incredible landscapes.

After breakfast, you’ll leave Arequipa by tourist bus or minivan, crossing the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve—keep an eye out for wild vicuñas grazing along the way. The route climbs steadily, passing high-altitude plains with views of snow-capped volcanoes.

Upon arrival in the village of Chivay, the gateway to Colca Canyon, you’ll check into your local lodge or guesthouse. In the afternoon, unwind at the La Calera Hot Springs, where you can soak in thermal pools surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery—perfect for relaxing tired muscles after the long journey.

Evening at leisure in Chivay to enjoy a warm local meal, get a good night’s rest, and prepare for tomorrow’s early visit to the Condor’s Cross, one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Andes.

Condor’s Cross & Transfer to Puno

Day 6 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru begins at dawn with an early breakfast in Chivay before heading deeper into the Colca Canyon. Your main stop is the famous Mirador Cruz del Cóndor (Condor’s Cross), one of the best places in South America to see the majestic Andean condor in flight. Standing at the edge of the canyon, you’ll watch these massive birds ride the morning thermals—an unforgettable sight set against the dramatic cliffs.

After your visit, continue through traditional Andean villages, passing pre-Inca terraces still in use by local farmers. You’ll have a few short stops for photos and snacks before your overland journey continues to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca.

The drive crosses the rugged Altiplano, with occasional herds of llamas and alpacas grazing against snow-capped backdrops. On arrival in Puno in the late afternoon, check into your hotel and take the evening to rest or stroll along the lakeside promenade in preparation for tomorrow’s island adventure.

Lake Titicaca: Uros & Taquile Islands

Day 7 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru is dedicated to exploring the legendary Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake and a place full of living traditions.

Early in the morning, you’ll transfer from your hotel to Puno’s port and board a motorboat heading to the famous Uros Floating Islands. Here, you’ll meet the Uros people, who for centuries have lived on islands handwoven from totora reeds. Your guide will explain how these islands are built and maintained, and you’ll have the chance to step onto the spongy surface and visit local families or small souvenir stalls.

Next, you’ll sail further across the deep blue lake to Taquile Island, known for its stunning views and rich textile traditions recognized by UNESCO. A gentle walk up the stone paths leads you to the main square, where you’ll learn about the islanders’ unique social structure and weaving techniques.

Enjoy a simple traditional lunch prepared by local hosts, featuring fresh lake fish or an Andean vegetarian option. After lunch, there’s time to take photos and appreciate the panoramic views of Lake Titicaca stretching to the Bolivian side.

In the afternoon, you’ll return by boat to Puno, arriving back at your hotel with the evening free to rest or explore the lakeside city at your own pace.

Route of the Sun: Puno to Cusco

Day 8 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru takes you along the famous Route of the Sun, a scenic and cultural journey from Puno to Cusco.

After breakfast, you’ll board a comfortable tourist bus that makes guided stops at key sites along the way. Your first stop is Pukará, an ancient pre-Inca site where a small museum displays stone sculptures and pottery that reveal the region’s earliest cultures.

The road then climbs to La Raya Pass, the highest point on the route at around 4,335 meters (14,222 ft). Here, you’ll have time for panoramic photos of snow-capped mountains and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing on the high plains.

Next, you’ll continue to Sicuani for a buffet lunch, enjoying a variety of traditional Andean dishes in a simple, family-friendly setting.

Back on the bus, you’ll visit the impressive Raqchi archaeological site, also known as the Temple of Wiracocha. This large complex was one of the Inca Empire’s most important ceremonial and storage centers.

Before reaching Cusco, your last stop is Andahuaylillas, home to the famous Church of San Pedro, nicknamed the Sistine Chapel of the Andes for its stunning baroque murals.

You’ll arrive in Cusco in the late afternoon. A private transfer will take you to your hotel to rest and get ready for tomorrow’s exploration of the Inca capital.

Cusco City Tour

Day 9 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru begins with a guided Cusco City Tour, the perfect way to get to know the heart of the former Inca Empire while adjusting to the altitude.

After breakfast, meet your local guide and start at Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s historic main square surrounded by beautiful colonial arcades and the impressive Cusco Cathedral, built on top of an Inca palace using stones from Sacsayhuamán.

Next, visit Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun. Once the Inca’s most sacred site covered in sheets of gold, today it forms the base of the Santo Domingo Convent, showcasing the incredible blend of Inca and Spanish architecture.

The tour continues outside the city center to explore Sacsayhuamán, the massive fortress with perfectly fitted megalithic walls and stunning views over Cusco’s red-tiled roofs. From there, you’ll stop at three nearby archaeological sites: Qenqo, an ancient ceremonial site; Puka Pukara, a small military post; and Tambomachay, known as the Inca Baths due to its fascinating water channels and ritual fountains.

In total, the Cusco City Tour lasts around four hours. Return to your hotel by early afternoon with free time to stroll the narrow streets of the San Blas neighborhood, shop for local handicrafts, or relax at one of Cusco’s cozy cafés before your next adventure in the Sacred Valley.

Super Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes

Day 10 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru takes you deep into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region of lush farmland, ancient terraces, and living Andean culture.

After breakfast in Cusco, your guide and driver will pick you up for a full-day Super Sacred Valley Tour. Your first stop is Chinchero, a traditional Andean village famous for its Inca archaeological site, colonial church, and colorful weaving cooperatives where local artisans demonstrate traditional dyeing and textile techniques

Next, visit the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory used to adapt crops to different altitudes. Just a short drive away, explore the striking Maras Salt Mines, thousands of small salt pools that have been harvested by local families since pre-Inca times—an incredible spot for photos and unique souvenirs.

Around midday, you’ll stop in Urubamba, the valley’s quiet market town, for a buffet lunch featuring a variety of local Andean dishes—perfect for refueling before the afternoon’s adventures.

Your last stop is the impressive living Inca town of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll explore its massive stone terraces, the ceremonial Temple of the Sun, and its labyrinth of original Inca streets still inhabited today.

In the late afternoon, you’ll board the tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town). The scenic journey follows the Urubamba River through lush valleys and cloud forest until you arrive at the base of the Lost City. Check into your hotel in Aguas Calientes and rest up for tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu—the highlight of your 13-day Peru adventure.

Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco

Day 11 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru is the day you’ve been waiting for: an early visit to Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

After an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll meet your guide and board one of the first shuttle buses up the winding mountain road to the Machu Picchu entrance gate. Arriving early means you’ll see the citadel at its most peaceful and mystical, often surrounded by morning mist.

Your guided tour will last about 2–2.5 hours, covering the most iconic spots such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana sundial, the Sacred Plaza, and the agricultural terraces with panoramic viewpoints. Your guide will share stories about Inca engineering, daily life, and the rediscovery of the site by Hiram Bingham in 1911.

Keep in mind that Machu Picchu now has a circuit system—your guide will explain which route is available based on your ticket. If you’ve pre-booked a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll continue that climb independently after the main guided visit (note: these must be booked months in advance and have an extra cost).

After your tour, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch on your own and time to shop for souvenirs or relax at a local café. In the afternoon, you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a private transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Rest well—tomorrow you’ll be ready for one last high-altitude adventure to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain!

Rainbow Mountain Hike (Vinicunca)

Day 12 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru takes you to one of Peru’s most colorful and photogenic natural wonders: Rainbow Mountain, also known locally as Vinicunca.

Your day starts very early, with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. You’ll travel by tourist minivan for about three hours through picturesque Andean villages and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing in open fields.

After a light breakfast en route, you’ll reach the trailhead at around 4,600 meters (15,100 ft). The hike to the summit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, following a well-marked path surrounded by snow-capped peaks and striking red and ochre hills.

At the top, standing at 5,100 meters (16,732 ft), you’ll see the stunning multi-colored stripes of Rainbow Mountain stretching across the landscape—an unforgettable sight that rewards your effort and high-altitude endurance.

You’ll have time to rest, take photos, and admire the panoramic views. For those who wish, there’s an option to continue a short extra walk to see glimpses of the Red Valley—depending on weather and conditions.

After descending, return to a local village for a hearty lunch with simple Andean dishes, then board your transport back to Cusco, arriving by late afternoon. The evening is free for you to relax, enjoy a last dinner in the city, and get ready for your final travel day back to Lima.

Return to Lima & End of Tour

Day 13 of your Peru itinerary 13 days in Peru marks the final chapter of your journey across Peru’s coast, Andes, and highlands.

After breakfast at your hotel in Cusco, you’ll have free time depending on your flight schedule—take a last stroll through the historic streets, pick up any last-minute souvenirs, or simply relax before your transfer.

At the arranged time, your driver will pick you up for your domestic flight from Cusco to Lima, included in your package. On arrival at Lima Airport, connect to your international departure or extend your stay if you’d like to explore more of Peru’s capital on your own.