Peru in One Week: 4 Recommended One-week Itineraries to Peru

- Amelia Cartwright
- From
- Amelia Cartwright
- From
- Rebecca Parker
- From
- Tatsatom Goncalves
- From Brazil
Peru One-week Itinerary Options
Looking to make the most of one week in Peru? Explore the iconic Machu Picchu, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Cusco, and discover the breathtaking Sacred Valley with our Peru one-week itinerary suggestions. Each Peru one-week itinerary suggestions below give you a taste of the country's rich history, stunning landscapes, and lively cities on your trip to Peru.
Itinerary #1: Adventure in the Andes


Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Welcome to Lima. | Arrival |
Day 2 | Uncover the rich history of Cusco. | Historical exploration |
Day 3 | Explore Sacred Valley and take train to Aguas Calientes. | Train ride |
Day 4 | Spend a full day exploring the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. | Exploration |
Day 5 | Travel by bus to Puno, gateway to Lake Titicaca. | Scenic journey |
Day 6 | Embark on a boat tour to the floating reed islands of Lake Titicaca. | Boat tour |
Day 7 | Travel back to Lima. | Departure |
This week-long Peruvian adventure offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. Begin your journey in Lima, where you'll get a taste of Peru's vibrant capital. Then, fly to Cusco, the ancient heart of the Incan Empire, where colonial architecture meets pre-Columbian ruins. Your journey continues through the Sacred Valley, a region of stunning landscapes and scattered Incan sites, before spending a full day exploring the breathtaking citadel of Machu Picchu. You'll then head to Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, to experience the unique floating reed islands and the rich culture of the lake's inhabitants.
Itinerary #2: Rainbow Mountain Trek and More

Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Land in Cusco and acclimatize while exploring the Sacred Valley | Arrival and exploration |
Day 2 | Discover Cusco's colonial architecture and Incan ruins | Exploration |
Day 3 | Hike the scenic Yanacocha trail | Hiking |
Day 4 | Cross the Pucacocha Pass into Anantapata | Transfer |
Day 5 | Behold the colorful Mount Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) | Exploration |
Day 6 | Continue your trek through breathtaking Andean landscapes to Jampa | Hiking |
Day 7 | End your trek in Pitumarca and head back to Cusco | Departure |
For adventurers and nature enthusiasts, this one week in Peru itinerary offers an unforgettable trekking experience in the high Andes. After acclimatizing in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, you'll embark on a challenging but rewarding multi-day trek through some of Peru's most spectacular mountain scenery. The highlight of this journey is undoubtedly the ascent to Rainbow Mountain, a geological wonder known for its vibrant, multi-colored striations. Along the way, you'll pass glaciers, cross high mountain passes, and experience the raw beauty of the Andean wilderness. This trek is physically demanding, reaching altitudes of up to 6,400 meters, but the breathtaking vistas and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort.
Itinerary #3: Lima, Cusco & the Lost City

Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Touch down in Lima for a tour | Arrival |
Day 2 | Delve into Lima's rich history with visits to colonial sites and museums | Historical exploration |
Day 3 | Fly to Cusco and take in its attractions | Transfer |
Day 4 | Explore Maras and Moray | Exploration |
Day 5 | Board the train to Aguas Calientes | Train ride |
Day 6 | Spend a day in Machu Picchu | Exploration |
Day 7 | Say farewell to Peru | Departure |
This itinerary begins in Lima, Peru's vibrant capital, where you'll explore the city's colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Then, fly to Cusco, the ancient Incan capital, to acclimate to the high altitude and discover its fascinating blend of Incan and Spanish influences. From there, venture into the Sacred Valley to explore the unique salt terraces of Maras and the mysterious circular ruins of Moray. Next, board a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The highlight of your journey awaits as you spend a full day exploring the awe-inspiring Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, perched high in the Andes. This carefully crafted itinerary offers a perfect balance of history, culture, and natural wonders, allowing you to experience the best of Peru in just one week. From bustling cities to ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes, this tour captures the essence of Peru's diverse attractions.
Itinerary #4: Amazon Adventure and Cultural Immersion


Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Arrive in Lima and explore the bohemian Barranco district | Arrival |
Day 2 | Fly to Puerto Maldonado and boat ride to your Amazon jungle lodge | Boat ride |
Day 3 | Embark on guided jungle treks and canopy walks in the Amazon rainforest | Hiking |
Day 4 | Participate in local community visit and nighttime caiman spotting | Community visits |
Day 5 | Fly to Cusco and acclimate while exploring the San Blas neighborhood | Transfer |
Day 6 | Enjoy a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo | Exploration |
Day 7 | Departure in Cusco | Departure |
This unique itinerary combines the wonders of the Amazon rainforest with the cultural riches of the Andean highlands. Begin your Peruvian adventure in Lima, where you'll get a taste of the capital's artistic side in the colorful Barranco district. Then, plunge into the heart of the Amazon rainforest from Puerto Maldonado for two full days. The second half of your journey takes you to the Andean city of Cusco, where you'll explore its charming cobblestone streets and blend of Incan and colonial architecture. A day trip through the Sacred Valley introduces you to ancient Incan sites and traditional Andean culture. Your week-long Peru trip concludes with a visit to Machu Picchu, the crowning glory of Incan civilization.
Need help in planning your one week itinerary to Peru?
One week in Peru gives you an incredible glimpse into the country's diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. While you may not see it all, one week is plenty to experience the magic of Machu Picchu, the charm of Cusco, and even some of the local flavors and traditions that make Peru unique.
If you are looking for more Peru one-week itinerary ideas, contact our travel experts for a customized trip to Peru. For more ideas for more duration-related article, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Peru. For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Peru.
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