5 Days of Peruvian Wonders Itinerary

Fly from Lima to Cusco early in the morning (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes). Upon arrival, take some time to acclimate to the altitude. Start your exploration with a visit to Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), which was once one of the most important temples in the Inca Empire.

In the afternoon, head to Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca fortress located on a hill overlooking Cusco. The massive stone walls are a testament to Incan engineering skills. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Cusco.

Spend your evening exploring Cusco's vibrant San Blas neighborhood. Known for its narrow streets and artisan shops, it's a great place to find unique souvenirs. Enjoy dinner at Chicha, a popular restaurant by renowned chef Gastón Acurio.

Take a guided tour from Cusco to explore the Sacred Valley (approximately 1 hour drive). Start with Pisac Market where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs while experiencing traditional Andean culture.

Continue your tour with a visit to Ollantaytambo Fortress, one of the best-preserved Incan sites in Peru. The fortress offers stunning views over the valley and insights into Incan architecture and urban planning.

Return to Cusco in the evening (approximately 1 hour drive) and relax at Limo, which offers delicious Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine.

Start your day early with a train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (approximately 3.5 hours). From Aguas Calientes, take a bus up to Machu Picchu. Begin your exploration of this iconic archaeological site with a guided tour that covers the main highlights, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Room of the Three Windows.

After your guided tour, take some time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. Consider hiking up to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for a panoramic view of the entire site. Alternatively, you can hike up Huayna Picchu for a more challenging climb and breathtaking views.

Return to Aguas Calientes in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner at Indio Feliz, a highly-rated restaurant known for its unique blend of Peruvian and French cuisine. After dinner, take some time to relax and reflect on your day before heading back to Cusco.

Fly from Cusco to Arequipa early in the morning (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival, start your exploration with a visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery. This stunning convent is like a city within a city, with its colorful streets and beautiful architecture.

After lunch, head to the Plaza de Armas where you can visit Arequipa's impressive Cathedral and enjoy views of El Misti volcano. Then, explore the Museo Santuarios Andinos which houses 'Juanita,' an incredibly well-preserved mummy discovered on Mount Ampato.

TranslatedName - End your day with dinner at Zig Zag, known for its delicious alpaca steaks and unique volcanic stone cooking method.