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As native peruvian who have explore Peru extensively I can tell you Peru will offer everything you crave in a travel adventure: stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, unforgettable food, and plenty of opportunities for both adventure and cultural exploration.

The reality is that with 10 days in Peru, you can’t see it all, but you can certainly experience a range of Peru’s most iconic destinations. For first-time visitors, I’d suggest focusing on Lima, Huacachina, Nazca, Paracas area, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Cusco and Puno. Visiting this areas will give you a great glimpse of what Peru is about. But warming a trip like this will only make you want to return to explore more.

Whether you are having an spontaneous trip, or planning ahead this itinerary covers the best you can do In Peru in Peru in 10 days.

Quick Guide of Peru with kids

Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to Peru to help plan your epic adventure!

Where to Stay: 
Lima
– Casa Andina premium Miraflores (moderate & clean) Cusco
– Palacio InKa Cusco (great location and style) Machu Picchu
Inti Puku Machu Picchu(moderate and clean)

When to Visit:
– I recommend shoulder season (Early May or late September)for Cusco
– Summer (June – August) is peak season – Remember Peru winter is on July but is dry season in mountain while summer is on January and is wet season in the mountain.

Things to Do: 
– Visit Miraflores and Barranco in Lima
– Ride the train to Machu Picchu
– Go sandboarding in Huacachina.

How much does it cost Machu Picchu

Thing you Should Considerate when Planning your Peru Itinerary

When traveling to Peru with kids or by yourself take precautions when withdrawing money.

Use licensed taxis remember while is not an issue in Peru. Use reputable transport services.

If you are going to bring cash along with you just do your homework before you get here. Research the best exchange rates before you leave to avoid being ripped off.

Traveling to Peru with kids can be a safe and enjoyable and a great destination for family travel, but like any destination, it’s important to take some basic precautions to ensure a safe and stress-free trip.Here are some basic precautions to take:

Be aware of your surroundings: Be cognizant of your surroundings and any possible dangers or threats. Avoid traveling alone at night and be wary of pickpockets in crowded places.

Make use of reliable transportation: For excursions, use trustworthy taxi companies or ride-sharing services, and only registered and controlled travel companies

Be careful with food and water: To prevent food disease, consume only bottled water and avoid uncooked or undercooked foods.

Use reputable tour operators: If you plan to take a tour or hire a guide, make sure to use a reputable and licensed operator to ensure your safety and security.

Stay current on travel advisories: Before your journey, check the most recent travel advisories and safety tips, and be prepared to modify your plans appropriately.

Research your accommodations: Before booking, do your research and choose reliable and secure choices, particularly if you’re traveling with children.

Prepare for altitude sickness: If you plan to tour high-altitude locations such as Cusco or Machu Picchu, go slowly and give time for acclimation.

You can do this by staying in Cusco for a few days before going to Machu Picchu to acclimatize to the altitude. Avoiding booze and coffee as well as drinking plenty of water can also help. Drink plenty of water, avoid booze, and think about taking altitude sickness medicine. Prepare for altitude sickness. 

Entry requirements: Make sure you and your kids have valid passports, and check if you need a visa to enter Peru. Also, keep in mind that Peru requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for travelers going to the Jungle . This is my number one to do on my list, you will be surprised how many people find out this very late.

Book your ticket to Machu Picchu in advance

Transportation: Peru has a variety of transportation options, including buses, taxis, and trains. And applications as Uber, however always be cautions. Make sure to research your options and take appropriate safety measures, such as wearing seat belts and avoiding overcrowded vehicles. In Peru many taxis has not seat belts.

Language: Spanish is the official language of Peru, so it can be helpful to learn some basic phrases or bring a translation app or dictionary to communicate with locals. My favorite applications for this are babble, and pismelur

What Would you Find in This Itineraries

In this blog post, you’ll find an overview of different Peru itineraries, for families but also for first time solo visitors including my top recommendation for a balanced experience featuring iconic destinations like Lima, Machu Picchu, Puno and Nazca Lines. This is the best and most complete itinerary you will find. Additionally, I’ll provide alternative itineraries for those seeking unique adventures or deeper cultural immersion.

Peru with kids in Sacred Valley

If you’re ready to dive deeper into planning your Peru trip, you’re in the right place! As I mentioned I’ve traveled extensively around the country, even exploring Machu Picchu with my kids, so I’ve got plenty of first-hand experience to share.

What Are the best Things to do in 10 days in Peru

My top recommendation? A well-rounded 10-day itinerary that hits all the must-see spots like Lima, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and an adventure into the nazca Lines. It’s a great mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation—perfect for first-time visitors, and especially if you’re traveling with family. This way, you can easily tailor your trip to your own travel style.

Best Itinerary for 10 Days in Peru

Day 1 – Lima

Day 2 – Cusco

Day 3 – Sacred Valley

Day 4 – Sacred Valley

Day 5 – Machu Picchu

Day 6- Puno

Day 7 – Puno

Day 8 – Puno Arequipa

Day 9 – Nazca

Day 10 – Huacachina – Paracas – Lima

Day 1 Lima, Miraflores and Barranco 

walksArrive and stay in Miraflores. You should explore Miraflores Parque Kenedy and get check out Larco Mar a unique shopping center, and is close to Malecon Cisneros the waterfront promenade that you can explore. The vistas of the sea and the shoreline from here are breathtaking. On the path you will cross the lovers park, The Chinese Park, El Principito park, Maria Reiche park and more. You can walk along enjoy different dessert and food along the way.

Lima Main square

A fun option is to Rent bikes for you or the whole family and ride Malecón Cisneros ( 6.2 miles) that named eventually eventuallychange to Malecon de la Reserva.

End the day visiting  Barranco take a stroll through the colorful and bohemian neighborhoods and try the classic peruvian anticuhos and picarones at el tio Mario. with a great view of the famous Bridget of sights. If you have time visit the Museum of Osma.Check out our visit to Barranco here.

Where to stay in Peru

I am sharing where to stay in every city you will be visiting:

Check here where to stay in Lima

where to eat in Lima here:
  • My favorite restaurant for the ambiance is Museum Larco Cafe  Larco Museum you would love it too
  • Rosa Nautica for the view
  • where to eat: and have lunch at Huaca Puccllana for a unique experience
  • After this, go to pueblo Libre to visit the Huaca Pucllana site museum and Visiting theto learn about Peru’s ancient cultures and enjoy a delicious dinner in a beautiful restaurant in Café Larco.

🥙Recommendations about what to eat here

Where to stay: JW Marriott Miraflores

More recommendations in where to stay in Lima are here

Check the 31 Ultimate Top Things to do in Lima.

Day 2: Lima to Cusco use your first day for acclimatation

Fly early from Lima to Cusco, where the altitude change is noticeable. Spend the day acclimating by strolling the Main Square, sipping coca tea, and admiring the beautiful colonial architecture and Incan ruins. Take it easy—drink plenty of water and give your body time to adjust.

We spent our first day exploring Plaza de Armas and visiting the fascinating Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), an Inca temple later converted into a Catholic church. The Cathedral, built by the Spanish on top of the temple, is also worth visiting.

In the afternoon, we explored Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Incan fortress with massive stone walls built in the shape of a jaguar. If you’re feeling good, visit Q’engo, another Incan site with aqueducts, terraces, and fountains.

After arriving at the airport, take a taxi or  shuttle to your  hotel  or Airbnb. Check available options here.

Here is an afternoon guided Tour that covers Sacsayhuaman Inca´s Temple, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara & Q`enqo Half-Day Tour

Favorite Places Where to Eat in Cusco

Where to Stay: @ Palacio Inka Hotel

Here is more information about altitude acclimatation

Other things to do in Cusco
  • Chocolate museum workshop 
  • Explore the San Pedro Market
  • Visit the Inca Museum
  • Explore the San Blas neighboorhood on your own
  • And in the evening, you could attend a traditional Peruvian dance and music show at a local venue, such as the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo or the Cusco Cultural Center. These shows are a great way to experience Peruvian culture and entertainment. 
  • Pikillacta, Tipon and Andahuaylas in a tour. Check it here.
  • Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco
  • Huchuy Cusco Located to the north of cusco know as Little Cuzco.
  • Valley of the Goblins
  • Raqcui
  • The Q’eswachaka Bridge. You can book this experience here. It take a full day trip since is quiet far from Cusco but good news is not as popular as other destinations there.
  • Other places to visit are : Church of San Blas and Pachacutec Monument, seriously so many places.

Day 3: Sacred Valley – Pisac and Chincheros

You can hire a private tour and build your own tour or use the tours offered in Cusco Main Square or online.

Taking a day trip to the Sacred Valley is a must. Start by visiting the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary on your way out of Cusco — this is what we did with a private toyr and we loved seeing the condors up close!

Next, head to the town of Pisac, about an hour’s drive from Cusco. I suggest to stop at the The Mirador de Taray , which offers stunning views of the Vilcanota River and the surrounding valley. Once in Pisac, you will explore the impressive Inca archaeological site, when visiting with my kids they were captivated by the ancient terraces and winding paths. After this you will have the chance to wander through the town’s colorful market, full of handicrafts and textiles. Here is our visit.

After lunch, visit tChincheros  to see its vibrant textiles and learn about traditional weaving techniques including the natural ingredients used in their creation. This is a must and It is my personal favorite because you found how resoursable and creative the mountain people were. Back to Cusco

Excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas from Cusco

Where to stay in Pisac or Chicheros if you decide stay @ Tambo del Inka Hotel, spa day for family, heated pool swim, amazing breakfast Buffett

Day 4: Sacred ValleySalt Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo

The Sacred Valley is one of the most breathtaking places in Peru, and our journey to  Ollantaytambo was nothing short of magical. Start with a stunning train ride to Ollantaytambo. Once you arrived in Ollantaytambo, you will immediately struck by the grandeur of its towering Incan ruins. It was an Inca Village and it is very well preserve. It was a very important agricultural, military, and religious center. Climbing the steep stone steps helps you gain deep appreciation for the incredible ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Inca civilization.

From Ollantaytambo, we ventured to the salt pans at Salineras de Maras, another extraordinary sight that has been in use since Inca times. Local families still harvest salt here by hand, maintaining traditions passed down through generations. Walking around the terraced salt pans, we marveled at the geometric patterns glistening in the sunlight and gained insight into this ancient practice. You can even purchase a variety of salts, including pink salt, prized for its rich mineral content.

Then we headed to Moray, where we explored the mysterious circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation. You will have a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced agricultural techniques.

Back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying a quiet evening and dinner in the town. Staying here makes it easy to travel to Machu Picchu the next day, just a 90-minute train ride away.

Book your train here

Popular Tours in Cusco you Will Want

Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco

Full Day Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco

2-Day Tour: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train

Machu Picchu Full Day

Day 5: Machu Picchu and Aguas calientes  

Star your day early and take the train Ollantaytambo to Machupicchu ( 1 hour and half ride) drop luggage in hotel. Take the bus to the ruins and Spend the day visiting Machu Picchu’s breathtaking ruins (which typically lasts around 2-3 hours). I highly recommend hiring a guide—it made the visit so much more enriching. You can either pre-book a trip or hire a local guide on the spot.

After the visit spend time in  Aguas Calientes and explore. The town is famous for its hot springs, which you can visit after a long day of touring for a relaxing soak.  Don’t forget to bring your swimming suit. We were traveling with children, so making a day to pause and see sights was ideal.

In the evening, catch the train back to Cusco. The train ride takes about 4 hours, so you can sit back and relax as you take in the stunning scenery of the Peruvian countryside.

Where to stay: @ Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel (AMAZING), town of Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu

Check here to find How Much Machu Picchu costs for a family of four!

Also, check how to get from Lima to Machu Picchu

Day 6: Cusco to Puno Arriving in Puno and Getting to Know the City

Board an early morning flight into Juliaca Airport (Inca Manco Cápac International Airport), which is the main hub for travelers heading to Puno. Don’t worry—your final destination is just an hour’s drive away!

This city is in altitude but by now you will be acclimate. Once you’ve had a chance to rest, get ready to explore the city. Start with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, Puno’s main square, where you’ll find the impressive Puno Cathedral. It’s a great spot to take in some of the local culture and admire the colonial architecture. From here, take a leisurely stroll down to Lake Titicaca—there’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the horizon on the highest navigable lake in the world!

Where to Eat:

For dinner, treat yourself to some authentic Peruvian cuisine. A highly recommended spot is Mojsa Restaurant—it’s a local favorite, offering dishes like quinoa soup or grilled alpaca.

Where to stay in Puno: Hotel Jose Antonio Puno and Hotel Viva Puno Tierra


Day 7: Adventures on Lake Titicaca – Uros Floating Islands & Taquile Island

Fly from Cusco to Juliaca, the nearest airport to Puno. One of the most unique experiences I have ever had was visiting the Uros Floating Islands. You won’t believe that the islands were made entirely of reedsand the Uros people have lived there for centuries. You learned so much about the Uru people and their way of life. It is trully an experience. The highlight is taking a ride on a traditional reed boat!

Next visiting Taquile Island, known for its breathtakimg stunning views of Lake Titicaca. The traditional textiles here are beautiful, and I bought a few handmade items to take home.Taquile offers a glimpse into another ancient Andean culture. After a fresh-caught trout lunch, spend some time wandering the island and chatting with locals, who are known for their hospitality and skilled craftsmanship.

Lake Titicaca Day Trip Uros Taquile Islands Tour

In the afternoon, you could explore the Sillustani burial towers, which overlook the serene Lake Umayo. I am into history so I appreciate this sites so much. You will be intrigued by the history of the pre-Incan civilization and the unique cylindrical tombs. Take the opportunity to hike up to one of the island’s higher points for an incredible panoramic view of the lake.


Day 8: Puno to Arequipa (Day trip -Morning Departure)

Catch the bus Overnight to Arequipa. Reliable bus companies like Cruz del Sur or Oltursa offer comfortable services for the 6-7 hour journey. You’ll be treated to scenic views of the Andean highlands along the way, making the time pass quickly.

Once you arrive in Arequipa, you’ll have a few hours to explore this beautiful city known as the “White City.” Start with a visit to Plaza de Armas, where you can admire its colonial architecture. Next, tour the historic Santa Catalina Monastery or the Museo Santuarios Andinos, where you can learn about the famous Ice Maiden, Juanita.

Arequipa City Tour and food and drinks experience

When it’s time for lunch, head to a traditional picantería to try local dishes like rocoto relleno. After lunch, take some time to wander through Arequipa’s charming streets or relax in one of its many cafes before preparing for your next leg of the journey.

After dinner , catch an overnight bus to Nazca. This 9-10 hour trip allows you to rest during the journey and arrive early in the morning, ready to explore Nazca. There are great and comfortable buses.

Get your bus ticket here

By morning, you’ll be in Nazca, refreshed and ready to discover the famous Nazca Lines or other nearby attractions!Start your journey early in the morning.


Day 9: Discover the Mysteries of the Nazca Lines

Drop your lugagge and have morning flight over the Nazca Lines, the best way to see these famous geoglyphs. The flight lasts about 30-40 minutes, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the incredible shapes etched into the desert—monkeys, birds, and even a spider. It’s a surreal experience that will leave you in awe, and we were glad we got up early to avoid the afternoon winds. Here is our experience

After that we head out to the Cantalloc Aqueducts, which are just a 15-minute drive from town. These ancient underground channels, built by the Nazca people over 1,500 years ago, are still functional today. As you walk through the area, you’ll be amazed by the engineering that allowed them to bring water to one of the driest regions on Earth.

Take your time exploring the aqueducts, spiraling wells, and nearby ruins. The morning light over the desert provides a perfect backdrop for photos, and you’ll learn about the ingenuity behind these irrigation systems that helped sustain agriculture in such an arid environment.

Overnight in Nazca:

Where to stay in Nazca Hotel Nazca Lines


Day 10 Depart for Huacachina – Paracas – Lima

We depart early to hit the road for Huacachina a beautiful coastal town about 3 hours north of Nazca (about 200 km). The drive takes you through desert landscapes with expansive views of the dunes and hills, giving you a real sense of Peru’s diverse geography.


In Huacachina, your first stop is an exhilarating dune buggy and sand boarding tour. The ride through the rolling dunes is an absolute thrill as your buggy speeds up and down the sandy slopes. When you stop, it’s time to try sand boarding—strapping yourself in and gliding down the dunes is a rush of excitement. After an hour or two of action, you’ve got sand in your shoes and a huge smile on your face. Here is our Experience in Huacachina


After all the fun you can ride grab lunch with the view of the dunes the food there is DELICIOUS and there are several restaurants.

Then head to Paracas, just about an hour away. Your next adventure takes you out onto the water with a Ballestas Islands tour. We love this place often called the “Mini-Galapagos” of Peru. We saw sea lions, penguins, and even dolphins. You hop on a boat and sail out to the islands. The rocky islands are brimming with wildlife, and it’s a magical experience to see them so close in their natural habitat. After about two hours on the water, you’re back onshore, energized from the beauty of the Pacific coast.


Useful Tips:

  • Pack for the Desert: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and light clothing are essential for a day in the sun.
  • Cash: Bring some cash for entrance fees and small purchases, as card payment might not be accepted in all areas.
  • Timing: Huacachina can get busy with tourists, especially in the late afternoon, so it’s worth booking your dune buggy and sand boarding tour ahead of time.

Next Return to Lima late afternoon to catch your late evening flight to return home




Common questions about 10 days in Peru Itinerary

Sure, here are some additional things you might regret if you have limited time on a 10-day itinerary in Peru:

Things you could regret planning your 10 days in Peru itinerary :

  1. Skipping Cusco’s Rich History: Missing out on the historical and cultural treasures in Cusco, such as the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) or the San Pedro Market, can be a significant oversight.
  2. Not Visiting the Sacred Valley’s Smaller Towns: Not exploring smaller towns like Pisac or Chinchero in the Sacred Valley might mean missing unique local markets and stunning ruins.
  3. Overlooking the Nazca Lines: If you’re in the area, not taking a flight over the Nazca Lines can be a missed opportunity to see one of Peru’s most intriguing archaeological wonders.
  4. Skipping Paracas and the Ballestas Islands: Missing the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve means missing out on incredible wildlife and dramatic coastal scenery.
  5. Not Visiting Arequipa’s Highlights: Not including Arequipa, with its stunning architecture and nearby Colca Canyon, might mean missing a beautiful and culturally rich city.
  6. Forgetting to Try Regional Cuisine: Rushing through without sampling regional Peruvian dishes and local specialties could mean missing out on some of the best culinary experiences.
  7. Not Planning for Altitude Sickness: Failing to allow time for acclimatization in high-altitude areas like Cusco and the Sacred Valley can lead to discomfort and limit your ability to enjoy activities.

Getting to Cusco from Lima

Here are the main ways to get from Lima to Cusco, about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) away:

  1. By Plane: The fastest option, with flights taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines like LATAM, Avianca, and Peruvian Airlines offer multiple daily flights. For the best fares, book in advance—Skyscanner is a handy tool for this.
  2. By Bus: A longer journey of 20 to 24 hours. Popular bus companies include Cruz del Sur, Ormeno, and Exclusive, offering comfortable services with food, drinks, and reclining seats.
  3. By Car: Renting a car is possible but not recommended due to the challenging drive through the Andes. The trip takes about 20 hours and involves navigating narrow, steep roads at high altitude.

Find Flights Cheap flights to Cusco Peru

To get from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, you have two main options:

By Hiking: For a more adventurous route, consider hiking the Inca Trail. This 4-day trek offers spectacular views but requires good fitness and advance planning. Permits are needed and can sell out months in advance, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers and may not be ideal for families with young children.

By Train: The easiest way is to take a train, which departs from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba in Sacred Valley and arrives at Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The journey takes about 1.5-2 hours, with options ranging from economy to luxury through companies like Peru Rail and Inca Rail.

You Also be interested on:

How to get from Lima to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Altitude

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