10 Day Peru Itinerary An Epic First Timers Guide
This comprehensive 10-day Peru itinerary for first-time visitors covers everything from surviving altitude sickness in Cusco to navigating the train to Machu Picchu, all based on my real experiences and honest mistakes.
This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience Peru’s highlights in Cusco and Lima without feeling rushed. You’ll get the iconic experiences (Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain), cultural immersion opportunities, and enough time to actually enjoy each place.
Before We Start: Altitude Sickness is very real
You need to understand that Cusco sits at 11,200 feet above sea level, and altitude sickness in Cusco will affect most people. I don’t care how fit you think you are, this altitude will humble you REAL quick. I spent two full days acclimating, yet I still struggled on every single hike. Pack altitude sickness medication, layers for crazy temperature changes, good hiking boots, canned oxygen, and your patience. You’re going to need all of it.
I HIGHLY recommend spending at least an hour on the stairmaster at the gym for a month before your trip to Peru. There are so many stairs, hills, and hikes everywhere you go. I was so out of shape and completely unprepared. This Peru trip single-handedly got me back in the gym, but I wish I had prepared beforehand.
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need a passport to visit Peru?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Peru. You don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days, which is perfect for this 10 days in Peru itinerary.
What language is spoken in Peru?
Spanish is the main language, though you’ll hear Quechua in many areas. English isn’t widely spoken outside of tourist zones, so download Google Translate.
Is Peru safe for Black travelers?
I think so. Peru has Afro-Peruvian culture, especially in Lima. I didn’t experience any issues related to my race.
How bad is altitude sickness in Cusco?
It’s real, and it varies by person. Cusco is at 11,200 feet, so give yourself at least two days to acclimate. If you get headaches easily or have never been to a high altitude, take it seriously.
Is the train to Machu Picchu really that expensive?
Unfortunately, yes. It’s around 180 dollars per person round trip, but it’s the only way to get there unless you want to hike for days. Budget for this as one of your major expenses.
When is the best time for 10 days in Peru?
May through September is the dry season and perfect for hiking. I went in May and had beautiful weather the entire time.
Is Peru safe for solo women travelers?
Generally, yes, especially in tourist areas. I felt safe throughout my trip, but always use common sense and trust your instincts.
What currency is used in Peru?
Peruvian Sol, but U.S. dollars are accepted in many tourist areas. You’ll get better rates paying in soles, though, and ATMs are everywhere in cities.
10 Day Peru Itinerary (Cusco & Lima)
Days 1-2: Cusco Arrival & Acclimation
Day one is simple: check in, drink coca tea, and don’t try to be Superman. I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Cusco. Day two, do some light exploring around Cusco’s historic center, San Pedro Market, maybe Qorikancha Temple if you’re feeling up to it. But listen to your body; headaches or dizziness mean the altitude is telling you to slow down. Use these days to book any last-minute tours because you’ll want everything organized before the real adventure begins.
TIP: Since there aren’t direct flights to Cusco, you will need to book a round-trip flight to Lima. From Lima, book a round-trip flight to Cusco. Explore Cusco before Lima because it is at a higher altitude and your body needs to adjust!
Day 3: Humantay Lake Hike
This hike takes you almost 14,000 feet above sea level, and it was honestly the hardest thing I’ve ever done. It was partly genius to do this as the first activity because every hike afterwards felt like a breeze. Don’t believe anyone who says “it’s just the altitude”—this is genuinely challenging even with shortcuts available. If you’re not a strong hiker, this might not be for you and that’s okay!
You can book this tour through Viator, and it’ll include breakfast, lunch, and transportation with a 5 AM pickup. The tour lasts about 8 hours total. Would I do it again? Chile, you couldn’t pay me. But do I regret it? Not for a second.
*Book: Humantay Lake Full Day from Cusco tour
Day 4: Sacred Valley Tour
Look for Sacred Valley tours on that include lunch and hit the main stops: Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. The critical part is making sure your tour ends in Ollantaytambo so you can catch the train to Machu Picchu. There is only one way to get to Machu Picchu without hiking: taking a train & then a bus.
Doing this tour will help you make the most of your time before hopping on the train to head to Machu Picchu town (also known as Aguas Calientes). Our Sacred Valley guide will show you the best things to do in that area of Cusco. Explore Chinchero, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.
*Book: Full-day Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco
Day 5: Day trip to Machu Picchu
Getting to this world wonder is a bit expensive, but you can’t go to Peru and not visit Machu Picchu. Read our visiting Machu Picchu guide for a price breakdown, best times to visit, and how to buy entrance tickets & train tickets.
*Read: Machu Picchu No Hiking Guide: Accommodations, Tickets, & How to Get there
Day 6: Mountain View Experience (The Llama Hotel)
After all that hiking, you’re going to need a day to relax and chill. The Mountain View Experience (which everyone calls the llama hotel) is the perfect place to do that. They don’t have a regular booking website, so you have to DM them or hit them up on WhatsApp, but trust me, it’s worth the extra effort.
We stayed in their A-frame cabin with an outdoor hot tub and waking up surrounded by mountains with llamas casually wandering around was pure magic. The private llama feeding session is included, plus free bike riding. Pack snacks because they only serve food at certain times and you may get hungry.
Day 7: Rainbow Mountain
Rainbow Mountain sits at 16,000 feet, but this experience was SO much better than Lake Humantay! This is the exact tour we booked with a 4 AM pickup, breakfast, and lunch included.
Pay for the motorcycle ride up instead of hiking. It takes 15-20 minutes, compared to 1.5 hours of difficult hiking at extreme altitude. You can walk down since the trail is relatively flat and scenic (about 45 minutes). At the summit, you’ll find food vendors and photo opportunities with llamas and alpacas (bring small bills for tips).
Day 8: Lima Street Food Tour
You’ll take a morning flight from Cusco to Lima, and I recommend booking a food tour for that afternoon. Lima is the culinary capital of South America, so this is your chance to try authentic Peruvian cuisine you won’t find anywhere else.
Expect to taste around nine different foods plus tropical fruits. The fresh ceviche will likely be a highlight, and you should definitely try picarones (traditional Afro-Peruvian donuts).
Day 9: Connect with Afro-Peruvians in El Carmen
If you want to connect with Afro-Peruvian culture, you’ll need to do some research since these experiences don’t show up in typical Google searches. Try reaching out on social media or asking locals for connections to families in El Carmen who share their cultural traditions. The journey to El Carmen takes about eight hours round-trip from Lima, so plan for a full-day experience to make the most of this cultural connection.
After asking around on TikTok, I connected with Martina from the legendary Ballumbrosio family. Her grandfather is considered “the godfather of Afro-Peruvian music,” and this visit became about listening to oral histories and honest conversations about growing up Black in Peru.
Day 10: Spa Day & Departure
After all those early morning hikes and cultural adventures, you deserve a relaxing final day. Book a spa day at The Westin Lima, where you can recover from your altitude adventures and reflect on your incredible 10 days in Peru.
Consider lunch at an Afro-Peruvian restaurant like El Rincón Que No Conoces if you can get recommendations, then head to the airport for your evening departure. This gentle ending helps you transition from adventure mode back to regular life while processing all the amazing experiences you’ve had.
Altitude Sickness in Peru: What You Actually Need to Know
Since altitude sickness is such a big part of planning any Peru itinerary, let me give you the real breakdown. Cusco sits at 11,200 feet, and your body is going to notice that difference immediately. Some people get headaches, others feel nauseous, and some (like me) feel like they can’t catch their breath during any physical activity.
The best advice I can give you is to plan for two full days of acclimation, especially if you’re prone to headaches or haven’t spent time at high altitude before. Drink coca tea (it actually helps), stay hydrated, avoid alcohol for the first couple of days, and don’t plan any strenuous activities until you’ve given your body time to adjust.
10 Days in Peru Will Change You
These 10 days in Peru challenged every part of me—physically, mentally, and emotionally. There were moments on those mountainsides when I wanted to quit, moments that literally took my breath away (both from altitude and beauty), and moments that connected me to cultures and histories I didn’t fully understand before.
Would I do these 10 days in Peru again? Probably not, although it was gorgeous and I LOVED my trip. Peru is waiting for you, and trust me, it’s going to be the adventure of a lifetime.
Peru Rating
After completing this 10-day Peru itinerary, here’s my honest rating on various aspects of traveling in Peru.
Black Culture (★★★☆☆) While Peru has Afro-Peruvian heritage, finding these cultural experiences requires significant effort and research. They’re not easily accessible to tourists, but when you do connect, the experiences are incredibly meaningful.
Adventure Activities (★★★★★) If you’re looking for heart-pumping, challenging adventures, Peru delivers. Rainbow Mountain, Lake Humantay, and the journey to Machu Picchu will test your limits and reward you with incredible experiences.
Food (★★★★☆) Lima’s culinary scene is world-class, and you’ll discover flavors you never knew existed. The variety and creativity are impressive, though some traditional dishes might be too adventurous for every palate.
Natural Beauty (★★★★★) From rainbow-colored mountains to ancient citadels surrounded by cloud forest, Peru’s landscapes are absolutely breathtaking. Every region offers completely different scenery.
Infrastructure for Tourists (★★★★★) Peru’s tourism infrastructure is excellent. Tour companies are professional and well-organized, transportation runs on time, and tourist areas have everything you need for a smooth experience.
Value for Money (★★★★☆) While Peru isn’t the cheapest destination, you get incredible value for what you pay. The uniqueness and quality of experiences, from Machu Picchu to cultural immersion, justify the costs.
Accessibility for Different Fitness Levels (★★☆☆☆) Be honest about your fitness level. The altitude and physical demands are real. However, shortcuts are available for most activities if you’re willing to pay extra.
Safety (★★★★★) I felt completely safe throughout my trip. Tourist areas are well-monitored, tour companies prioritize safety, and Peru has excellent infrastructure for international visitors.
Overall Score: 4.2 out of 5 Stars
Peru offers world-class adventure experiences with excellent tourist infrastructure, though accessing Black cultural experiences requires extra effort. The safety and value make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking transformative experiences.
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