Written by:Claire Dean
Published: 18-08-2022
While no one could ever see all of Peru’s attractions in one week, you can still fit in some of the country's significant highlights during that time. With minimal planning, you can do in the important historical sights of Cusco, before setting off on a bucket-list adventure that will take you to Machu Picchu and into the high Andes of the Sacred Valley. Stops along the way, the market town of Pisaq, its archaeological site and the magnificent fortress of Ollantaytambo. You can then head to the altiplano to see the traditional communities of the Uros people and their floating islands on the magnificent Titicaca Lake. Peru is a big country with many incredible attractions to see. If you’re pressed for time, planning a trip can be a daunting experience. There are many places to stop and buses to catch, but we’re here to help. Here is a guide to where you should go if you only have a week to travel through Peru.
Machu Picchu
Day 1- Arrival to Cusco
Fly into Cusco, the capital of the Inca empire, which was considered the “navel” of the world by the Inca Civilisation until the Spanish took it over. Visiting Cusco, you’ll experience the beautiful fusion of Inca and Spanish architecture, and that alone is worth the trip. This city high up in the Andes is unlike any city you’ve ever seen. Cusco is home to some of Peru’s most significant archaeological sites, fascinating history and atmospheric streets, all of which you will experience today. Walk through some of the city’s ancient streets and plazas to the Cathedral, Santo Domingo church and the Qorikancha Temple, a spectacular Inca temple once clad entirely in gold. Head to the four local ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo Puka Pukara and Tambomachay, just half an hour away from the city.
Plaza De Armas, Cusco
Day 2- The Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is breathtaking. Surrounded by craggy mountains and green grass, it is a remarkable landscape. Not only is the area beautiful, but there are also plenty of things to do to keep you busy, such as zip-lining, mountain biking, horse riding, and rafting. Don’t forget the impressive Inca archaeological sites of Ollantaytambo and Pisaq, as well as living Andean history still alive in the communities that inhabit the Sacred Valley. Take the evening train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes to prepare for the next day's Machu Picchu visit.
Ollantaytambo
Day 3- Machu Picchu
Somewhere on everyone’s bucket list is Machu Picchu. There isn’t enough to say about the Inca ruins in the sky. The sights at Machu Picchu are unimaginable; surrounded by towering peaks, with lush green terraces, amid a mysterious cloud forest Machu Picchu are unimaginable. Take the bus up to the site (half an hour) and discover Machu Picchu´s beauty and mystery.
Machu Picchu
Day-4 Bus to Puno
The bus to Puno takes several interesting pre-Inca and Inca sites along the way. You will enjoy a stop at Andahuaylillas - “The Sistine Chapel” of The Andes; Raqchi - with its high walls, the Temple of Wiracocha, one of Peru’s most impressive surviving Inca structures; La Raya -the highest point and the border between Cusco and Puno and Pucara, famous for its pottery. Then have dinner and spend the night in Puno.
Racchi
Day 5- Lake Titicaca
After breakfast, head to the port of Puno, where you will board a motor boat and depart to explore Lake Titicaca. Sail for 30 minutes to reach Uros; the floating island made entirely of reeds from the lake. After exploring and visiting the floating islands, sail to Amantani Island to stay with a traditional host family and participate in the activities, they have planned for you, including dinner and overnight at their homes on Amantani Island.
Uros Floating Islands
Day 6- Amantani -Puno
We will leave Amantani Island and the warm, friendly families that call this island home. Sail to Taquile Island to visit the famous weavers and enjoy a traditional lunch and stunning vistas on Taquile Island. We will sail back to Puno City for the final evening of the itinerary.
Taquile Island
Day 7 -Puno- Lima
Today we transfer you to the Juliaca Airport 40 minutes away from Puno, where you will take your flight to the capital Lima. You will have time for a final ceviche (Peru´s traditional and national dish) before you head back to the airport for your flight back home.
Miraflores Coastline, Lima
Remember that this is a suggested itinerary if you only have seven days. We certainly recommend much longer to experience Peru to the full. But this will help you get a feel for the country and take in some of Peru´s signature sights along the way. If you would like a more relaxed trip and have more time in Peru, we have many itineraries to get the most out of your vacation, and we can also help you with tailor-made itineraries to exactly suit your requirements.
Machu Picchu
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