How to Spend One Week in Peru: The Perfect Itinerary for Cusco & Lima
When I think of my favorite trips of all time, Peru is one of the first destinations to pop into my head. The blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, incredible food and stunning landscapes left me in awe at every turn. From exploring the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu to wandering through the bustling streets of Lima, Peru is a place that just has a way of captivating your heart and soul.
A few years ago, John and I traveled to Peru for the first time. We were inspired to go because John’s grandmother was born and raised there, and since John had a couple of months of work off before starting a new job, it was the perfect opportunity. We went in April, which turned out to be an ideal time to visit the South American country. Over the course of eight days (including travel time), we satisfied our desire for adventure, explored two incredible cities (Cusco & Lima), immersed ourselves in Peruvian culture, and made countless memories.
Since Peru is an increasingly popular destination, many people have asked us about our itinerary. Because I loved this trip so much, I’ve put together this travel guide detailing where we stayed, what we did, and essential travel tips for anyone planning a trip to Peru!
The Best Time to Travel to Peru
Peru is a destination you can visit year-round, but the best time to go depends on the regions you plan to explore and the type of experience you’re looking for. Since our itinerary focused on both Cusco and Lima, we found that April ended up being a great month to go.
Unlike most places in the U.S. that experience four distinct seasons in a calendar year, Peru only has two seasons: the dry season and the wet season. In the Andes region (including Cusco and Machu Picchu), the dry season typically runs from May to September, bringing clear skies and ideal hiking conditions—though also larger crowds and higher prices. The wet season spans November through March, when rain is more frequent, especially in the Sacred Valley and at high altitudes.
April is part of the shoulder season, making it a sweet spot between the rain and the crowds. We lucked out with the weather and enjoyed mostly sunny days in Cusco with mild temperatures and fewer tourists than the peak months. In Lima, the weather was warm and pleasant with coastal breezes, perfect for enjoying the city’s parks, seaside cliffs, and outdoor dining.
When should you travel to Peru?
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, I’d recommend going in April or May for a balanced blend of good weather, manageable crowds, and vibrant scenery. Just be sure to check for local holidays and festivals during your visit—many are worth experiencing, but they can also impact transportation and availability!
Abbreviated Itinerary
- Day 1 – Cusco: Arriving & Exploring the Plaza de Armas
- Day 2 – Cusco: Machu Picchu
- Day 3 – Cusco: Markets, Food & Culture
- Day 4 – Cusco: Rainbow Mountain
- Day 5 – Lima: Coastal Views
- Day 6 – Lima: Exploring Miraflores and Chocolate Making
- Day 7 – Lima: Wildlife, History & Nighttime Magic
- Day 8 – Museums and Farewell
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Days 1-4: Cusco, Peru: Exploring the Heart of the Inca Empire
We spent the first half of our trip in Cusco, a historic city located nearly 12,000 feet above sea level in the Andes Mountains. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is rich in history, archaeological wonders, and stunning landscapes. It also serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu, making it an essential stop on any Peru itinerary.
Where We Stayed:
We wanted to stay near the city center for easy access to bars, restaurants, and attractions while keeping our budget in check. While I usually prefer a hotel when traveling, we decided to save some money by exploring other options for lodging. Luckily, Cusco has plenty of affordable vacation rental options. We booked a rental just a five-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas. While it wasn’t luxurious, it had everything we needed, and the host was incredibly welcoming. At ~$50 per night, we couldn’t complain! As a bonus, there was a small shop on the ground floor, which made it easy to grab bottled water and other essentials.
Where to stay in Cusco
Vacation Rentals
While I usually prefer a hotel when traveling, we decided to save some money by exploring other options for lodging. Luckily, Cusco has plenty of affordable vacation rental options.
Day 1: Arriving & Exploring the Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas: Our first stop was Cusco’s bustling main square, lined with stunning colonial architecture, historic churches, and lively restaurants. I instantly fell in love with the charm of this city.
Dinner at Calle de Medio: We enjoyed our first Peruvian meal at Calle de Medio, a restaurant overlooking Plaza de Armas. The views from the balcony were spectacular, and we indulged in delicious local dishes, like Lomo saltado, while sipping on our first coca drink.
Peruvian Food Guide: 12 of the Best Foods and Drinks to Try in Peru
Day 2: Machu Picchu – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Machu Picchu was, without a doubt, the highlight of our trip. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Incan citadel is an absolute must-see. Many travelers opt for a multi-day hiking tour—such as the classic Inca Trail or the scenic Salkantay Trek—for a more immersive and adventurous journey to the ruins, but we didn’t have the time in our schedule to do so. The full-day tour option was perfect for our itinerary.
Machu Picchu Day Tour: We booked a full-day tour through Viator for around $400 per person. It included transportation, train tickets, a guide, and entrance to Machu Picchu. While pricey, it was 100% worth it!
Book Your Machu Picchu Day Tour Now
It was a long day—we had an early morning pickup around 4:00 AM and didn’t return to Cusco until after dark—but every part of the journey was memorable. The scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley was a highlight in itself, with panoramic windows offering stunning views of the mountains, rivers, and small villages along the way. Once we arrived in Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu), we took a short bus ride up a winding road to the entrance of the ruins.
Don’t Forget Your Passport! You’ll need to show your passport to enter Machu Picchu, so make sure to bring it with you on the day of your tour. They won’t accept a photo or copy—trust us, you don’t want to get all the way there and be turned away!
Our tour guide was fantastic, providing historical context and fascinating stories about Incan engineering, spiritual beliefs, and how Machu Picchu remained hidden from the rest of the world for centuries. Walking through the ancient stone structures, with clouds drifting through the mountains all around us, felt absolutely surreal.
After our tour, we had some time to explore Aguas Calientes, shop for souvenirs, and grab a bite to eat before heading back to Cusco.
Side Story: Getting Stuck in Machu Picchu
After an incredible day exploring Machu Picchu, we grabbed a quick bite to eat in Aguas Calientes and then made our way back to the train station only to miss our departure train back to Cusco. Cue the panic! We were exhausted, running on adrenaline and coca tea, and suddenly stuck in a remote mountain town with no idea what to do next.
Thankfully, the locals in Aguas Calientes were incredibly kind and helpful. A staff member at the train station patiently walked us through our options and helped us get rebooked on a later train that same evening.
Despite the hiccup, we made it back to Cusco safe and sound—just a bit later than expected, and with a funny story to tell.
Pisco Sours to End the Day: After an exhausting but incredible day, we stopped at a cozy bar near Plaza de Armas to unwind with Peru’s iconic cocktail, the Pisco Sour.
What is Pisco?
Pisco is a type of brandy made from distilled grapes, and it’s considered the national spirit of Peru. Smooth, aromatic, and strong, it’s the star ingredient in the famous Pisco Sour—a refreshing cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and a dash of bitters. You’ll find it on just about every menu in Peru, and for good reason. It’s tangy, frothy, and perfectly balanced. We had our first one after our day-trip to Machu Picchu, and let’s just say… it was the first of many.
Day 3: Markets, Food & Culture
Pisac Market: We took a cab to the nearby town of Pisac to explore its famous artisan market. From alpaca wool products to handcrafted jewelry, this was a great spot for unique souvenirs.
Lunch at Los Toldos Chicken: We couldn’t leave Cusco without trying pollo a la brasa, Peru’s delicious rotisserie chicken. Los Toldos Chicken is owned by a childhood friend of John’s grandma. This restaurant is a local favorite that served up one of the best meals we had! We enjoyed ours with an Inca Kola.
San Pedro Market: A must-visit for foodies, this local market is filled with fresh produce, street food, and colorful displays of Andean culture.
Side Story: Surprise! You’re in a Holy Week Procession
One of the most unexpected moments of our trip happened completely by accident. While walking through the streets of Cusco, we were told by a local that a “parade” would be happening soon and that we should stick around to see it. Naturally, we thought it’d be something festive—maybe music, dancers, and colorful floats like the parades we’re used to back in the States.
Well… it turns out the “parade” was actually a Holy Week procession, and very different from what we were expecting. Instead of lively music and confetti, we found ourselves in the middle of a deeply spiritual and somber event, with people dressed in traditional robes, carrying statues of Christ through the cobblestone streets. The air was thick with incense, and the entire crowd was eerily quiet, reverent, and still. We stood there, with crowds quickly filling up around us, feeling slightly out of place and unable to move.
The streets were completely blocked off, so we couldn’t leave even if we tried. We were quite literally stuck in the middle of the procession for over an hour. It ended up being one of those surreal travel moments that sticks with you forever.
Travel Tip
Always check the local calendar for festivals and holidays happening during your visit. Peru has many vibrant and important cultural celebrations—some of which may impact transportation, business hours, or your ability to get around town (or, you know, leave a market without walking through a religious ceremony)
Day 4: Rainbow Mountain & Cusco’s Historic Sites
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is one of the most visually striking natural wonders in Peru. This stunning, multi-colored mountain, striped with vibrant hues of red, yellow, green, and blue, has become an increasingly popular day trip from Cusco.
Rainbow Mountain Day Tour: We booked a guided day trip that included transportation, breakfast, lunch, and an experienced guide. The day started very early, with a 3:30am pickup from Plaza de Armas in Cusco. After a sleepy, bumpy three-hour drive through winding mountain roads and a quick stop for breakfast, we arrived at the trailhead just after sunrise.
The hike itself was challenging, even though it’s relatively short (about 4 miles round-trip). What makes it tough is the altitude—Rainbow Mountain sits at over 17,000 feet above sea level, and you feel every inch of it. We took it slow, stopped often to catch our breath, and sipped coca tea along the way. I’m not exaggerating when I say it was one of the most physically strenuous things I’ve ever done in my life (and as someone who enjoys regularly running and hiking for fun, I like to think that I’m in pretty good physical shape). I could hear my heart pounding in my ears, and my head was throbbing from the lack of oxygen in the air.
Despite the difficulty, reaching the top still felt like a major accomplishment. Unfortunately, it was pretty cloudy the day we visited, so we didn’t get the full, vibrant view that Rainbow Mountain is known for. And with the altitude hitting us hard at over 17,000 feet, we couldn’t bear to stay up there for too long. Still, standing in the Andes with hints of color peeking through the clouds was incredible. And as soon as we made our way back down, I felt instantly better.
Book Your Rainbow Mountain Day Trip Now
Cusco Cathedral: After returning to the city, we visited the breathtaking Cusco Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning art and intricate carvings.
Days 5-8: Lima, Peru: A Coastal Capital with Vibrant Energy
For the second half of our trip, we flew to Lima, Peru’s bustling capital and the city where John’s grandmother grew up. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima is known for its culinary scene, lively neighborhoods, and rich history.
Where We Stayed:
We chose a vacation rental in Miraflores, a trendy district along the coast. Our apartment had an amazing balcony overlooking the Faro La Marina lighthouse and the ocean. Miraflores is one of the best areas to stay in Lima, offering easy access to parks, restaurants, and nightlife.
Where to stay in Lima
Vacation Rentals
There is no shortage of hotel and vacation rental options in Lima. Miraflores is one of the best areas to stay, offering easy access to parks, restaurants, and nightlife.
Day 5: Coastal Views
Dinner at Senorio de Sulco: After admiring the views from the cliffside, we sat down for dinner. Our first meal in Lima was at this renowned restaurant, known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine.
Dessert at Cafe Cafe: We ended the night with a sweet treat at this cozy café, indulging in alfajores and lucuma ice cream.
What is an Alfajor?
An alfajor is a traditional South American treat made of two soft cookies sandwiched together with creamy dulce de leche, often dusted with powdered sugar or coated in chocolate. We had several during our trip, but our absolute favorite came from a tiny cart near the marina after our sea lion tour—warm, perfectly crumbly, and delicious.
Day 6: Exploring Miraflores
Kennedy Park: This lively park is filled with street performers, local vendors, and dozens of friendly stray cats! We wandered around for quite some time and grabbed a coffee at a nearby cafe.
Choco Museo: We attended a chocolate-making workshop at this interactive museum and learned how to make our own Peruvian chocolate. It was both fun and delicious!
From Bean to Bar
Did you know that the chocolate we enjoy today starts with the cacao bean? Peru is one of the top producers of cacao, and its beans are known for their rich flavor and complexity. Peru’s diverse climates allow for a wide variety of cacao beans to grow, many of which are used in the world’s finest chocolates. During our chocolate-making class, we learned how the process goes from “bean to bar”—starting with roasting and shelling the beans, then grinding them into a paste, and finally adding ingredients like sugar to create the sweet, smooth chocolate we’re all familiar with. It gave us a whole new appreciation for just how much work is packed into every bite!
Dinner at La Rosa Náutica: This beautiful restaurant sits on a pier overlooking the ocean and came highly recommended by John’s grandmother. It did not disappoint! The ceviche was the best I’ve ever had, and my salmon dish came on a cloud of cornbread stuffing that will live in my memory for the rest of my life!
Day 7: Wildlife, History & Nighttime Magic
Swimming with Sea Lions: One of the most unique experiences of our trip! We took a boat tour to the Palomino Islands, located just off the coast of Lima, and swam with wild sea lions.
After a scenic ride past rocky outcrops and seabird-covered cliffs (including Humboldt penguins), we arrived at the islands—home to a colony of over 8,000 wild sea lions.
Once the boat anchored, we suited up in wetsuits and nervously jumped into the chilly Pacific water. Swimming so close to these playful, curious creatures was thrilling—they’d glide right past us, bark, dive, and pop up again within inches. Our guides kept encouraging us to lift our feet up to them, as they apparently like to gently nibble on people’s toes!
While it might sound intimidating at first, the guides ensured everything was safe, and the sea lions mostly kept a friendly distance. This was such a special way to connect with Peru’s coastal wildlife and see these animals in their natural habitat. If you’re comfortable in open water, I highly recommend adding this to your Lima itinerary!
Book Your Sea Lion Excursion Now
Lunch at Huaca Pucllana: We had lunch at Restaurant Huaca Pucllana, a beautiful open-air restaurant that sits right beside a massive pre-Incan adobe pyramid in the heart of Lima. We dined on delectable Peruvian dishes while overlooking the ancient ruins that date back to 500 AD, making it one of our favorite dining experiences the entire trip.
Plaza de Armas & Museo del Pisco: After lunch, we took an Uber to Lima’s Centro Historico neighborhood. We visited Lima’s main square and enjoyed a Pisco tasting at Museo del Pisco.
Fountain Show at Parque de la Reserva: When in Lima, you can’t miss the “Magic Water Circuit” or Circuito Magico del Agua. This magical nighttime show features illuminated fountains choreographed to music—a must-see in Lima! There are multiple shows on Wednesday to Sunday and on holidays.
Dessert to end the night: We went back to Cafe Cafe bar for dessert and cocktails to celebrate our last full night in Peru.
Day 8: Museums & Farewell to Peru
Parque del Amor: We spent our last morning in Lima with a relaxing stroll through Parque del Amor, a picturesque coastal park with mosaic benches and sweeping ocean views.
Museo Oro del Peru & Museo Larco: Our last afternoon was spent diving into Peru’s rich history at two incredible museums before heading to the airport.
First, we explored the Museo Oro del Peru (Gold Museum), home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts, weapons, and textiles. Then we headed to the beautiful Museo Larco, set in an 18th-century mansion with lush gardens. Its galleries showcase stunning ceramics, intricate jewelry, and a glimpse into ancient Peruvian civilizations.
One last plate of lomo saltado: Before heading to the airport, we squeezed in one last meal—because no trip to Peru would feel complete without one more plate of lomo saltado. We found a local diner-type restaurant near Museo Larco. It was the perfect, comforting send-off after an unforgettable week.
Peru Travel Tips
- Altitude Adjustment: Cusco sits at nearly 3,400 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, and the altitude can hit you harder than expected. Give yourself time to acclimate—especially in the first 24 hours. Walk slowly, stay hydrated, and drink plenty of coca tea (a local remedy that really does help). Some hotels might also offer oxygen if you need an extra boost.
- Currency & Payments: Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN). While some restaurants and hotels in major cities accept credit cards, it’s smart to carry cash—especially for markets, small vendors, and tipping. ATMs are easy to find in both Cusco and Lima, but notify your bank ahead of time to avoid card issues.
- Packing Tips: Layers are key. The weather can change quickly, especially in the Andes. Pack lightweight clothes you can layer, a good rain jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, and sun protection (the high altitude intensifies UV rays). Don’t forget altitude meds if you’re prone to headaches, and bring a portable charger—especially for long day trips like Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
- Toilet Paper Reminder: With this trip being my first time in South America, bathroom etiquette was the biggest culture shock I faced. Plumbing in Peru isn’t equipped to handle toilet paper. Instead of flushing, dispose of it in the bins provided next to the toilet. It might feel strange at first, but it’s completely normal and expected there.
- Except Expensive Drinks: While food in Peru is generally very affordable, we found that alcohol isn’t. Cocktails—especially in touristy areas—can really add up. If you’re trying to stay on budget, enjoy a few splurges (like Pisco Sours!) but stick with local beers or non-alcoholic options like chicha morada (a sweet purple corn drink) or Inca Kola for the rest.
- Limited WiFi: WiFi is decent in Lima but we found that it can be spotty in Cusco, especially in more remote areas or on long day tours. If you need reliable internet, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international data plan before your trip.
- Getting Around: In Lima and Cusco, the safest way to get around is by using ride-share apps like Uber or booking a taxi ahead of time. Avoid hailing taxis off the street, as scams do happen. When in doubt, have your hotel or vacation rental host help you arrange a ride—they usually know the most reliable local options.
If You Want to Experience More of Peru
If you have extra time or want to explore beyond Cusco and Lima, Peru offers a wide range of destinations and unique experiences. Here are a few on my radar for the next time I travel there:
- Amazon Rainforest – Embark on an adventure into the world’s largest rainforest, filled with incredible biodiversity. You can explore the jungle by boat or on foot, visiting indigenous communities and spotting wildlife like monkeys, toucans, and caimans.
- Lake Titicaca – Visit the world’s highest navigable lake, nestled between Peru and Bolivia. Don’t miss the floating Uros Islands, made entirely of reeds, or take a boat trip to the beautiful island of Taquile, where ancient traditions still thrive.
- Hiking the Inca Trail – For those looking for a physical challenge, the Inca Trail offers a multi-day trek that leads you to Machu Picchu through breathtaking mountain scenery, cloud forests, and impressive Incan ruins. There are both guided 2-day tours and 4-day tours.
- Huacachina – This desert oasis near Ica is famous for its towering sand dunes and the chance to try adrenaline-pumping activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides. It’s the perfect place to experience Peru’s otherworldly desert landscape. You can even book a full-day trip to Huacachina from Lima with a group tour!
- Helicopter Ride over Nazca Lines – Fly over the mysterious, ancient geoglyphs of the Nazca Lines, etched into the desert floor. These massive designs, some over 1,000 feet long, remain one of Peru’s greatest enigmas. Some tours, like this one, also include a guided tour of Chauchilla Cemetery.
- The Maras Salt Mines (Salinas de Maras) – Just outside Cusco, visit the stunning salt terraces of Maras, where salt has been harvested since Inca times. The sight of thousands of salt ponds nestled in a valley seems beautiful and there are plenty of day tours from Cusco to get there.
Final Thoughts
Peru was one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to Lima’s vibrant city life, every moment was filled with adventure. If you’re considering a trip to Peru, I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable experience!
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