An exciting family adventure awaits as you embark on this thrilling 10 Day Peru Itinerary
Peru is an extraordinary place. It’s one of my favourite destinations to visit on the South American continent. Travelling to Peru often evokes a sense of stepping back in time, thanks to its iconic Sacred Valley region, breathtaking Andes mountains, and the globally renowned Inca Citadel.
Over the past decade, Peru has seen a significant influx of tourists. The wide array of activities and experiences that Peru offers is unparalleled. The country has flourished in the realm of tourism, catering to a diverse range of travellers seeking exceptional adventures.
The fabulous mix of Peruvian history, culture, and incredible food scene has magnetized travellers of all kinds, with a notable surge in family trips in recent times. It’s a common misconception that Peru is exclusively reserved for backpackers and adventure enthusiasts.
Family experiences in Peru extend far beyond the usual activities that garner attention. While the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu hold their own charm, there are numerous niche discoveries waiting to be explored in Peru.
To help you with your travels, this 10-day Peru itinerary is tailored to create a perfect family trip. The itinerary encompasses a thorough exploration of the Amazon rainforest, the enigmatic ruins of Machu Picchu, and the vibrant city of Cusco. Moreover, it’s designed to ensure that you immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local Peruvian culture and tradition.
Overview of the Peru Itinerary 10 Days
This 10-day Peru itinerary begins and ends in Lima, offering a convenient circular route. If you desire to extend your journey by a few additional days, you have the flexibility to do so, allowing you to further explore the remarkable destinations that Peru has to offer.
Moreover, this itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to cater to families travelling with children, ranging in age from 6 to 17 years old. All recommended activities and optional tours take into consideration the unique needs and interests of family members, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Highlights of this 10 Days in Peru –
- Exploration of Lima City
- Unravel wildlife at the Amazon Jungle
- Visit the town of Ollantaytambo
- Discover the mysterious site of Machu Picchu
- Full-Day tour to Ballestas, Nazca Lines, & Huacachina Oasis.
You can book the exact same tour from G Adventures. With similar Peru itineraries & other South American tours, you can find the one that suits your travel style.
Planning Tips for Peru Itinerary 10 Days
Before I get to the itinerary part, it’s important to understand a few essential planning tips before you plan a trip to Peru.
Best time to visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru typically falls between May and October, which marks the dry season. During this period, you can anticipate sunny weather, warm temperatures, and clear blue skies for your journey. However, it’s important to note that in the Andes region, the altitude can result in colder conditions. If you plan to undertake any treks, this season is ideal for such adventures.
Visa & Documentation
Visa requirements for entering Peru can vary depending on your country of origin. However, for travellers from the United States, you typically won’t need a visa. A valid U.S. passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond your planned date of departure from Peru is the primary requirement for entry into the country.
How much does it cost?
For an average 10-day tour in Peru, you can anticipate a cost ranging from approximately $1800 to $2200. This estimate serves as a general indication, taking into account the inclusion of off-beat activities and experiences during your journey.
Keep in mind that your overall tour price can also be significantly influenced by your choice of accommodation. Opting for suitable hotels in each of your Peru destinations can indeed have a substantial impact on the total cost of your trip.
Detailed Peru Itinerary for 10 Days
Day 1: Lima
Arrive in Lima anytime.
Peru’s capital city, Lima, has often been bypassed by travellers heading straight to the Sacred Valley region. However, Lima is fast emerging as a rising tourist hotspot in its own right. With its vibrant oceanfront setting, expansive coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and lively nightlife, Lima offers a great experience.
The city’s charm is further enriched by its colonial-era splendour, culturally diverse neighbourhoods, impressive museums, and a culinary revolution that has garnered global recognition. All of these elements combined make Lima a must-visit destination in the South American landscape.
Below are a few of the recommended activities you can do in Lima, Peru.
Visit the Plaza de Armas
The heart of Lima’s authentic experience lies in its historic centre, the Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor). This expansive square typically serves as the starting point for any Lima sightseeing adventure. In 1746, a devastating earthquake shook the city, causing widespread damage to many buildings. However, the resilient bronze fountain at Plaza de Armas remained standing as a testament to Lima’s enduring spirit.
One of the most delightful activities here is taking a leisurely stroll from Plaza de Armas to Plaza San Martin. This charming street introduces you to quirky restaurants and a blend of old and modern architecture. Along the way, you’ll also encounter the stunning Baroque colonial façade of La Merced church.
Convento de San Francisco
Lima boasts an array of cathedrals and architectural marvels, but the San Francisco church holds a distinctive place in the city’s landscape. What sets it apart is the presence of eerie catacombs, which are the final resting place for the bones of approximately 10,000 individuals.
Beyond this macabre fascination, the narrow passageways and staircases that wind through the catacombs create a truly intriguing experience for visitors exploring this historic church.
Explore Parque del Amor
There’s nothing better than to spend some quality time with your family at Lima’s friendly-driven spot – Parque del Amor (Park of Love). The park’s mosaic designs adorning its undulating walls have drawn comparisons to the architectural marvel of Antoni Gaudí’s Parc Güell in Barcelona, Spain. Taking an evening stroll through Parque del Amor is truly an experience you won’t want to miss.
Visit the Larco Museum
A standout attraction in Lima is the renowned Rafael Larco Herrera Museum, often simply called the Larco Museum. A visit to this extraordinary establishment offers a deep immersion into authentic Peruvian culture.
Housed within an 18th-century viceroy mansion, the museum showcases an extensive collection of over 40,000 artworks, artefacts, and ceramics. These collections vividly represent the Moche and Chimú cultures. Moreover, the museum boasts an impressive array of stone carvings, metalwork, and goldwork, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore Peru’s rich heritage
Lima’s Gastronomic Culture
The best way to treat yourself to some delicious, enriching food is by visiting one of the many restaurants in Lima. The city is a paradise for food enthusiasts, catering not only to those craving global cuisine but also those eager to savour classic Peruvian dishes.
Neighbourhoods like Miraflores and Barranco have witnessed a flourishing street food scene, offering a wide array of choices that will leave you pleasantly spoiled for options. Lima’s culinary offerings are truly a treat for the taste buds.
Overnight at Lima.
Day 2: Lima – Tambopata
It’s time to change gears! Board an early morning flight to Puerto Maldonado, from where you will travel via a boat to reach Tambopata.
While Lima’s modern, urban ambience is captivating in its own right, heading into the jungles of the Amazon provides an entirely distinct experience. As you arrive in Tambopata, the hot and muggy air envelops you, signalling the start of a dramatic landscape transformation. Soon, you’ll find yourself in the lush lowland regions of the Amazon jungle, where the natural world takes centre stage.
You have the rest of your day on your own. Make sure you explore some of the surroundings of the Tambopata region, either by taking optional excursions or through self-discovery.
Overnight at Tambopata.
Day 3: Tambopata
Exploration at the Tambopata and Amazon.
Today, you will journey to the Peruvian Amazon basin i.e. Tambopata National Reserve. A full-day excursion to Lake Sandoval is planned so that you feel the true Amazonian experience in Peru.
The expedition to Lake Sandoval includes a brief boat ride, a guided trek through the densely forested rainforest, and a canoe journey. Along this journey, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, leaf-cutter ants, and even tarantulas. As you venture onto Lake Sandoval itself, keep a watchful eye out for water snakes, adding to the thrilling experience of exploring this unique ecosystem.
Post your exploration, go on a small tour of the canopy bridges near the Inkaterra. It’s quite an interesting vantage point to feel the jungle as you walk through.
Experiencing Tambopata National Reserve is best combined with staying in the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica. The food, the accommodation, and the exciting excursions make them one of the top-rated lodges at Tambopata.
Additionally, you can also book this guided excursion that clubs all activities of Amazon in a single bundle.
Overnight at Tambopata.
Day 4: Tambopata – Cusco
Board your flight from Tambopata to Cusco.
Leave early morning from your hotel, to board your flight to reach Cusco. And get ready for an exciting adventure of the Andes in this 10 day Peru itinerary.
The rest of your afternoon will go in acclimatizing to the high Andes. Hence, we want to keep your exploration for the day very limited with no planned activities. However, if you feel like taking some optional tours, then I suggest taking up this Peruvian Cooking masterclass to understand the fusion behind the flavors & ingredients.
Overnight at Cusco.
Day 5: Cusco – Aguas Calientes
Transfer to Ollantaytambo, and then board your train to reach Aguas Calientes.
Before you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the historic fortress of Ollantaytambo. This town stands as an exceptional example of Inca urban planning and engineering. Within Ollantaytambo, you’ll discover a plethora of significant sites, allowing you to delve into the ruins and terraces.
Top things to do at Ollantaytambo –
Explore the Ollantaytambo Ruins
Upon your arrival in this picturesque town, you’ll be welcomed by expansive agricultural terraces that appear to ascend gracefully into the mountains, offering scenic vistas. Take your time to meander through these terraces at your own pace, and don’t fret — you’ll find several benches along the way, providing opportunities to rest and soak in the scenery.
The lower Inca terraces reveal features such as fountains, intricate irrigation canals, and the striking Temple Hill. Allocate approximately 2 to 3 hours to fully appreciate this site, as there’s a wealth of history and beauty to explore here.
Visit the town of Ollantaytambo
The charming, ever-green town of Ollantaytambo is known for its picturesque views. Take a walking tour, and discover the cobblestone streets leading you to a nice view of the Ollantaytambo ruins. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming canal bridges that link the main square to the market area. The picturesque setting beside the river offers an ideal backdrop for memorable photos.
After exploring Ollantaytambo, it’s time to board the train to Aguas Calientes. Pass through beautiful villages and soak in splendid views of the Urubamba Valley.
Overnight at Aguas Calientes.
Day 6: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Discover the Lost City of the Incas.
Machu Picchu is one of its kind, and that has inspired millions of travellers to witness its charming, charismatic natural beauty. Often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas,” this site is a testament to the astonishing beauty of its surroundings.
It features stunning scenery, expansive terraces, granite mountains cloaked in lush greenery, and remarkable stone temples. Undoubtedly, Machu Picchu is the highlight of this 10-day Peru itinerary, offering views at every turn that will leave you in awe.
Whether you visit Machu Picchu for a day or explore it via the Inca Trail – the experience remains unbeatable in all senses! It’s one of the highlights of your 10 days in Peru. This full-day is reserved to explore the ruins of Machu Picchu. You can either take a guided exploration tour or embark on a private journey to explore these ruins.
Moreover, there are specific Machu Picchu itineraries that you can explore.
| Note: The timings for Machu Picchu are 6 am to 5.30 pm. It does sound like a long day, but often you miss out on exploring Machu Picchu’s famous sights. Hence, booking group excursions really help – as they tend to have a perfect schedule to visit all the places. |
Catch early sunrise
The reason why you need to leave early in the morning is to catch imposing views of the Andes. Many travellers opt for this early start, so you may encounter some viewpoints within the ruins crowded with fellow tourists. However, if you’re not bothered by the company of fellow adventurers, the experience promises to be truly remarkable.
Temple of the Sun
A significant landmark that provides insight into Inca history is the Temple of the Sun. This site showcases some of the finest examples of Inca stonework, highlighting their remarkable architectural prowess. In the earlier stages of the pre-Inca period, this site served as a location for astronomical observations, reflecting the Inca civilization’s deep connection to celestial phenomena and their advanced understanding of astronomy.
Spot the Intihuatana
While exploring the Inca site, keep an eye out for the Intihuatana stones. These carved stones hold great religious significance in Inca culture and provide a glimpse into the spiritual and ceremonial practices of the Inca civilization.
The Temple of the Condor & Prison Group
The eastern side of Machu Picchu boasts several intriguing locations that are well worth your visit. Among them, you’ll encounter blocks of cell-like structures, both above and below the ground, often referred to as the ‘Prison Group.’ Additionally, you can explore the Temple of the Condor, a remarkable structure that resembles the head of a giant bird.
Explore the Agricultural Terraces
Machu Picchu’s true essence comes from its agricultural terraces that descend the slope. It’s hard to imagine how the Incas managed to cultivate crops based on the mountainous terrain of the Andes. Explore the site, as much as you can, and learn more about its history and development from the locals.
Overnight at Cusco.
Day 7: Cusco
Explore the town of Cusco.
Cusco, renowned for its steadfast preservation of Inca grandeur and spirit, stands as a beautiful city nestled in the Peruvian Andes. As you traverse the streets of Cusco, you’ll be greeted in the traditional authenticity of the Inca civilization’s heritage that endures to this day.
The city’s charm is a result of its amazing landscapes, meticulously preserved heritage, vibrant indigenous communities, day trips, and thriving street food scene. These attributes collectively make Cusco an indispensable stop that should not be overlooked during your visit to Peru.
Top things to do in Cusco, Peru –
Visit Coricancha: Temple of the Sun
The Coricancha, often pronounced as Qoricancha, stands as probably the oldest and most significant sacred temple of the Inca empire. This remarkable site, located in the heart of Cusco, is renowned for its extraordinary beauty.
When the Spanish arrived in Cusco and sought to conquer the Inca empire, many structures fell victim to destruction. However, the ruins of Coricancha, along with some remaining walls, miraculously survived the ravages of time and conquest, and today, they are beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into the rich history of this sacred place.
Explore the San Pedro Market
While it may not be entirely steeped in Peruvian authenticity, the San Pedro Market remains a notable and vibrant destination in Cusco. This bustling marketplace is teeming with local sellers and vendors, and its streets buzz with an energetic crowd in search of a wide array of products. At San Pedro Market, you can find nearly everything you might need, including unique and enticing souvenirs.
Stroll around San Blas
San Blas Plaza is home to a plethora of artisan shops, coffee houses, and galleries, making it a delightful area to explore. While it may not be an absolute must-visit, taking a leisurely stroll through this district is a relaxing way to discover a new corner of Cusco.
Explore the Churches and Cathedrals
Cusco is abundant in churches and small cathedrals, so even if you don’t intentionally seek them out, you’re likely to stumble upon these architectural gems as you explore the city’s winding streets and historic neighbourhoods.
Overnight at Cusco.
Day 8: Cusco – Lima
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before you fly back to Lima.
You’ll return to Lima today. There’s no planned activity for today, as we have kept this day open for you to explore. Alternatively, you can check the below suggested optional tour.
Barranco and Miraflores Bike Tour
If biking seems exciting to you, then hop on to discover Barranco and Miraflores on this guided bike tour. This 3-hour trip will take you across the hidden streets of the Bohemian neighbourhood. Along your way, expect to see stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Overnight at Lima.
Day 9: Lima
Explore Ballestas, Nazca Lines, & Huacachina Oasis.
It’s time for one last exploration! Embark on an adventurous journey to visit three scenic places of Peru – the Ballestas Islands, the Huacachina Oasis, and the Nazca Lines. This one-day trip is an amalgamation of history, nature, culture, and mystery – all giving you a distinctive Peruvian experience.
Ballestas Islands
Located just off the Peruvian coast, the Ballestas Islands are easily accessible as a one-day trip from Lima. Upon your arrival, you can anticipate encountering a diverse array of wildlife, including various species of birds, penguins, and sea lions.
Exploring the Ballestas Islands is a must activity because it allows you to get up close to the pristine shores and observe these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.
Huacachina Ica
The extraordinary desert oasis of Huacachina is a true gem in Peru, offering a landscape surrounded by towering sand dunes. Here, you can partake in a range of exhilarating activities, including hiking, sandboarding, and thrilling jeep rides across the dunes.
Nazca Lines
History buffs would love Nazca Lines! A trip to Nazca is popular amongst families visiting Peru. There are a ton of things to see around when you reach this location. Some of them include visiting Cantalloc Aqueduct, Chauchilla Cemetery, Museo Antonini and Puquios.
Overnight at Lima.
Day 10: Lima
Depart Lima anytime.
If you wish to extend your stay, then you can easily do some by adding a couple of days.
Accommodation for 10 Days in Peru Itinerary
Choosing a perfect hotel for each of these locations becomes crucial for any travel plan. Accommodation plays a big role in deciding whether your tour price cuts down or significantly goes up.
For this Peru itinerary of 10 days, I have linked only hotels that are worth your budget. Go through the catalogue, and select the ones you choose to book. All the hotels suggested work well with our 10-day Peru itinerary.
Budgeted Hotels in Peru – Visit this section to find budgeted stays in Peru
Mid-range Hotels in Peru – Visit this section to find good options across the mid-range bracket.
Luxury Hotels in Peru – For fancy stays in Peru, check this site.
What to Pack for Peru Itinerary 10 Days
For any South American trips, I advise you to carry a convenient travel bag. Having a small handy bag will also help to keep your day-to-day essentials.
Essential Items –
T-shirts/ Shirts (Preferably long-sleeves)
Long pants/ Jeans
Sleepwear/ Innerwear (as per your need)
Footwear
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Fleece top/sweater
Outlet adapter
First-aid kit (bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, and Aspirin)
Reusable water bottle
Few energy bars/drinks
Waterproof backpack cover
Windproof rain jacket
Essential Items (warm weather) –
Cotton T-shirts/ Shirts
Shorts/ skirts
Sunscreen/ Lotion
Swimwear/ Sunglasses
Further Reading & Resources
Discover a range of highly-designed itineraries and road trips and choose what’s best for you. Browse through some of these articles via the below links.
New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
Chicago to Niagara Falls: 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops
A couple of in-depth American Itineraries –
California: 10-Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Highlights of Alaska: 7 Day Alaska Itinerary : How To Spend One Week in Alaska
Ultimate Alaska: 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip
