Peru Highlights: Lima to Machu Picchu

Discovering destinations...

Peru Highlights: Lima to Machu Picchu | Explorinder | Explorinder

Inca Empire, colonial cities, Andean peaks, and world-renowned cuisine. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you through Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, Sacred Valley over 10 unforgettable days. From Lima to Sacred Valley, you'll experience the best of Peru Highlights. Each stop has been selected to give you authentic experiences, from world-famous landmarks to hidden local gems that most tourists never discover.

December to April

Culture enthusiasts

History lovers

Food travelers

Trip Highlights

Miraflores
Larco Museum
Santa Catalina Monastery
Plaza de Armas
Machu Picchu Day Trip
Plaza de Armas
Ollantaytambo
Pisac Ruins

The Route

Lima

2 days · Peru

6h to Arequipa

Arequipa

2 days · Peru

5h to Cusco

Cusco

3 days · Peru

0h to Sacred Valley

Budget Estimation

Estimated costs for 10 days (accommodation, food, activities, local transport)

Budget

€700

~€70/day

Mid-Range

€1500

~€150/day

Luxury

€3500+

~€350/day

City-by-City Guide

Lima2 days

Miraflores. Larco Museum. Historic Center. Barranco

Must See

• Miraflores
• Larco Museum
• Historic Center

Local Tips

• Explore Lima's hidden neighborhoods
• Try local specialties at traditional restaurants
• Visit early morning to avoid crowds

Arequipa2 days

Santa Catalina Monastery. Plaza de Armas. Colca Canyon. Misti Volcano

Must See

• Santa Catalina Monastery
• Plaza de Armas
• Colca Canyon

Food & Drink

Getting Around

Lima → Arequipa

rail · 6 hours

Book in advance for the best prices. Sit on the right side for the best views.

Arequipa → Cusco

bus · 5 hours

Book in advance for the best prices.

Cusco → Sacred Valley

bus · 0 hours

Book in advance for the best prices.

Practical Tips

1Book train tickets 2-4 weeks in advance for the best prices
2Download offline maps for each city
3Learn a few basic phrases in each language
4Carry euros in cash for smaller establishments
5Consider a city pass for major attractions

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoesUniversal power adapterLight rain jacketReusable water bottleDay backpack

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do I need for this Peru Highlights trip?

We recommend 10 days to fully experience each destination without rushing.

What is the best time to visit?

December to April

How do I get between cities?

The itinerary uses a mix of trains and buses. Book tickets on Omio or Trainline for best prices.

Ready to explore this route?

View the interactive map to see attractions and compare transport options

Peru Highlights: Lima to Machu Picchu

Trip Highlights

The Route

Lima

Arequipa

Cusco

Budget Estimation

City-by-City Guide

Lima2 days

Must See

Local Tips

Arequipa2 days

Must See

Food & Drink

Getting Around

Lima → Arequipa

Arequipa → Cusco

Cusco → Sacred Valley

Practical Tips

What to Pack

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to explore this route?

Sacred Valley

Local Tips

Cusco3 days

Must See

Local Tips

Sacred Valley3 days

Must See

Local Tips