Other Peru Related Posts

Cities in Peru Covered

• Lima
• Huaraz
• Paracas
• Ica
• Arequipa
• Puno
• Cusco
• Ollantaytambo
• Aguas Calientes
• Maras
• Moray

Peru Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru
• Day 2: Lima to Huaraz
• Day 3: Huaraz
• Day 4: Hike Laguna 69
• Day 5: Lima
• Day 6: Lima to Paracas
• Day 7: Paracas to Huacachina
• Day 8: Huacachina to Arequipa
• Day 9: Arequipa
• Day 10: Tour Colca Canyon
• Day 11: Arequipa to Puno
• Day 12: Puno to Cusco
• Day 13: Cusco
• Day 14: Cusco to Aguas Calientes
• Day 15: Machu Picchu
• Day 16: Pisac and Ollantaytambo
• Day 17: Maras and Moray
• Day 18: Hike Rainbow Mountain
• Day 19: Cusco to Lima
• Day 20: Depart Peru

Getting to Peru

The best way to get to Peru is to fly into the Lima airport, Jorge Chávez International Airport, as it is Peru’s main international and domestic airport and a hub for several airlines. I found many cheap flights to Lima on both Spirit and JetBlue from the U.S. In the end, I flew from Atlanta to Lima for around $450 total (including a checked bag) on Spirit. I’ve flown Spirit both domestically and internationally multiple times, and the experience is never as bad as some people make it out to be. Sure, the legroom is smaller and the seat is slightly uncomfortable, but I thought it was well worth the savings (the other flights were $800+). My suggestion is to check Google Flights on a regular basis and play around with some dates. You might get lucky and snag a cheap deal on a non-low-cost carrier.

Food in Peru

You are in for a treat because Peru has the most delicious cuisine! I miss Peruvian food so much, and I wish I could just fly back for a meal. Here are some of my favorite dishes:

• Lomo Saltado: a stir fry that typically combines marinated strips of sirloin with onions, tomatoes, french fries, and spices, and is served with rice (Note: I actually don’t eat beef so I ordered the pollo saltado below)
• Pollo Saltado: Lomo Saltado but with chicken instead of beef
• Aji de Gallina: shredded chicken stew cooked with yellow chili peppers, walnuts, spices, garlic, and turmeric
• Pollo a la Brasa: a classic roast chicken with a Peruvian twist
• Papa a la huancaina: boiled yellow potatoes in a spicy, creamy sauce
• Arroz Chaufa: Peruvian-styled fried rice
• Pisco: the national drink of Peru – a must-try

Of course, there are other famous Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, alpaca burger, and cuy (guinea pig), but I did not try these plates as I am not an adventurous eater You’ll just have to let me know in the comments below how you liked these!

Transportation in Peru

Between Cities

Traditional Bus

Getting around Peru is fairly easy, and the most popular way to get between cities is by bus. There are several reputable bus companies such as Cruz del Sur, Ormeño, and Oltursa that run the routes between different Peruvian cities, and you will definitely find many options for the popular tourist routes. I used Cruz del Sur for a roundtrip route from Lima to Huaraz, with an overnight return leg, and had a great experience. The bus was roomy and comfortable with large leather seats that recline all the way. For the overnight leg, the bus was exactly the same, and blankets and breakfast were provided as well. It was $25 roundtrip/person for that route so the price is reasonable but not cheap.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Additionally, there is a hop-on-hop-off bus company called PeruHop that comes highly recommended by other travelers. I actually used PeruHop for most of my journey. PeruHop offers multiple routes through Peru and Bolivia, and the routes are all available on their website.

I chose the Full South to Cusco route that took me from Lima to Cusco with multiple options to stop in between. I largely based my Peru itinerary on the route chosen. My favorite part about the hop-on-hop-off bus service was that you could spend as many days in a place as you want, or you could elect to completely skip getting off the bus at a certain stop. I liked having the flexibility of still deciding my schedule and itinerary! Another plus was that PeruHop has additional mini-excursions and sightseeing tours included in the route. For example, we got to go Pisco tasting, see the Nazca Lines, and visit the Paracas National Reserve.

Of course, you don’t need to use PeruHop and could book separate buses or private transports for your entire trip, but I thought PeruHop certainly made traveling through Peru easier for me.

Colectivo Taxi

In Cusco, there are special “colectivo” taxis that locals use that will take you to the neighboring towns near Cusco such as Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Chincero, and Maras for a super cheap price (10 – 20 soles depending on where you go). These colectivo taxis are basically large, shared vans. They don’t have set schedules and leave as soon as the taxi is completely full. I waited about 20 minutes for mine to get full because I was the first passenger in my colectivo.

Plane

There are options to fly between Peruvian cities, but I found it easier just to take buses between cities. The routes I chose were shorter, and there was greater flexibility for departures by taking a bus. Most airports in Peru are smaller, regional airports, the major ones being in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. I did fly from Cusco to Lima though because the flight was fairly inexpensive and only took 1.5 hours vs having to take a long bus from Cusco back to Lima.

Within Cities

Walking is the best way to get around in most cities since the attractions and sites are within walking distance from the main squares. I typically stayed near the Plaza de Armas “main square” of each city, and I suggest that you to search for central accommodations as well. The prices are quite reasonable, and you’ll be within walking distance of most restaurants, attractions, and sights. In Lima, I did use Uber as the city is more spread out, but the rides were cheap (~$3 ride).

3 Week Peru Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru

This is the start of your Peru itinerary! The first day is your travel day to Peru. As mentioned earlier, most international flights come into the Lima airport, and typically, they land late in the evening. The first day will really be for traveling to Peru and then settling into your accommodation in Lima. I chose to stay in the Miraflores district of Lima and used Airport Express Lima to get to my accommodation.

However, if you’re arriving very late and need sleep immediately, I suggest staying at Holiday Inn Lima Airport which is just across the street from the airport.

Airport Express Lima is the official airport shuttle, and it runs once an hour from the Lima airport to Miraflores with multiple stops. I looked at the stops online ahead of time and found a drop-off point that was just a few minutes walk from my accommodation. I thought Airport Express Lima was really convenient, comfortable, and not too costly ($8 USD/person).

Lima Hotel Recommendation:

• INNSiDE by Meliá Lima Miraflores
• Holiday Inn Lima Airport
• Iberostar Selection Miraflores

Day 2: Lima to Huaraz

Today is another mostly travel day as you travel from Lima to Huaraz. I used Uber to get from my hotel in Miraflores to the Cruz del Sur bus station. The bus ride was quite comfortable, and I got to see the ever-changing surroundings. I left around 9:30 AM and arrived in Huaraz around 6:00 PM, making it an 8.5-hour ride. The fare also included lunch which was served on the bus (it was quite delicious).

Huaraz Hotel Recommendation:

• Hotel & Bungalows Villa Valencia
• Krusty Hostel B&B
• Casa Tribu

Day 3: Huaraz

I highly recommend spending at least one day in Huaraz before hiking Laguna 69. In order to acclimatize to the altitude, you should try and spend as much time in Huaraz as you can. The one mistake I made in my Peru itinerary was not giving myself more time in Huaraz. I actually did not give myself this extra day in Huaraz. I felt the difference as soon as I got off the bus in Huaraz – the air felt thinner and I felt my breathing get heavier and heavier with every step I took. Take this day to prepare for the hike tomorrow. Walk around town and go grocery shopping for food for the hike. Make sure you have your transport to Laguna 69 booked whether it be a tour or by private transit. Don’t forget to get plenty of rest!

Day 4: Hike Laguna 69

I decided to use a tour for a guided hike of Laguna 69 and I highly recommend that you book a full-day tour from Huaraz.

For my tour, they picked us up around 5 AM. From there, it was another 3-hour journey to the trailhead. We stopped for breakfast along the way and loaded up on carbs to prepare ourselves. The hike took a total of 6 hours roundtrip. It took 3 hours to ascend, 2 hours to descend, and an hour break in between. Then we headed straight back to Huaraz. To read an in-depth guide on hiking Laguna 69, click here.

We were back in Huaraz by dinner time. I had a delicious dinner at Trivio Resto Bar before my night bus back to Lima. The seats reclined all the way back, and we were given pillows and blankets for a good night’s rest.

Day 5: Lima

Today will be all about exploring the capital of Peru! There’s so much to see in Lima, and this will be the only full day in Lima before you depart again. Don’t worry, you’ll be spending more time in Lima at the end of the trip so no need to rush. I recommend spending this day exploring the districts of Miraflores and Barranco and enjoying the beautiful coastline. I do have two restaurant recommendations: Buenavista Cafe for lunch and Tanta for dinner – both places were absolutely delicious.

Day 6: Lima to Paracas

As mentioned earlier, I used a company called PeruHop to travel between most of the cities in Peru and based my itinerary largely on my chosen route. It was an early morning pickup in Lima at a previously set location, and I got off the bus at Paracas in the late afternoon.

For the remainder of the evening in Paracas, I recommend taking a walk along the beach, watching the sunset, and enjoying some fresh seafood caught by the local fishermen as it will be another early and exciting morning the next day (do you see a pattern here )

Paracas Hotel Recommendation:

• Atoq Paracas Reserva
• Hotel Paracas
• Casa Andina Select Paracas

Day 7: Ballestas Islands, Paracas National Reserve, and Huacachina

Ballestas Islands

Just off the coast of Paracas, Ballestas Islands (also known as Poor Man’s Galapagos) is full of wildlife such as sea lions, penguins, and thousands of species of birds. Be sure not to miss taking a tour of the islands while you’re in Paracas. The tour is inexpensive and only takes 2 hours. If you’re using PeruHop, I suggest doing the 8 AM tour to catch the 11 AM free tour of the Paracas National Reserve offered by PeruHop. Get to the docks in Paracas by 7:45 AM for the tour of the Ballestas Islands. Don’t buy your tickets online as there are vendors selling tickets for about 35 soles at the docks.

Paracas National Reserve

After the tour of the Ballesta Islands, you will get to see where the desert meets the sea. Paracas National Reserve is a protected wildlife area with several striking viewpoints of the ocean. The roads are unpaved and much of the reserve is covered by desert, so the only way to visit is with a guide or tour, but luckily PeruHop will take you straight to the most iconic viewpoints. If you’re not using PeruHop, I highly suggest booking a tour in town (there are many tour operators in Paracas).

Huacachina

After the tour of Paracas National Reserve, you’re on the road again to Huacachina. It is about a 1.5 hour drive, so you’ll arrive in the mid-afternoon. If you like adventure, Huacachina is your place. There’s plenty of activities such as sandboarding and dune bugging. If you prefer a little less adrenaline, I recommend climbing to the highest sand dune to watch the sunset over the desert oasis. Huacachina is a very small town, and you can easily walk around the oasis in less than 30 minutes. For that reason, I think one night is enough to experience all that Huacachina has to offer. I stayed at Desert Nights Ecocamp and highly recommend the experience of glamping in the desert. Each tent is very large and comes with 2 full beds, fans, WiFi, and power outlets. It also has full bathrooms, showers, a restaurant, bar, and pool.

Huacachina Hotel Recommendation:

• Desert Nights Ecocamp

Day 8: Huacachina to Arequipa

After a peaceful night’s sleep in the desert, you’re well-rested to journey onto Arequipa. The Huacachina to Arequipa journey is the longest leg of the itinerary. I left Huacachina with PeruHop at 1:00 in the afternoon and arrived at 5:30 the next morning in Arequipa. It is an overnight bus journey, but thankfully the bus was very comfortable. However, I would recommend packing earplugs and an eye mask as there may be excessive honking and headlights at night.

Additionally, if you’re traveling with PeruHop, there are extra stops on the way to Arequipa that break apart the journey and make it more bearable. We stopped first at a vineyard where we did Pisco tastings. We had a lot of fun learning Peruvian toasts and trying different types of Peru’s national drink. Then, we stopped to see the mysterious Nazca lines. We got to climb a 3 story tower and see the different drawings from a bird’s eye view. I still can’t decide whether the drawings were because of religion…or aliens

Day 9: Arequipa

Arriving in the early morning in Arequipa, I got to enjoy the Plaza de Armas in peace and quiet. Arequipa is a beautiful city that is full of life and culture. A visit to Arequipa isn’t complete without touring the Santa Catalina Monastery, visiting the Basilica Cathedral de Arequipa, and watching the sunset at one of the rooftop restaurants and bars in the Plaza de Armas. There are also plenty of great restaurants in Arequipa with my favorites being Zig Zag, Chicha, and Zingaro. For breakfast, I really enjoyed Crepisimo Creperie which had an amazing selection of savory and sweet crepes.

Another place in Arequipa to visit is Ruta de Sillar! It is about 30 minutes outside of the historic center and I recommend booking a tour to visit. It is a quick visit but definitely a cool site to see!

Arequipa Hotel Recommendation:

• Plaza Central
• Hotel Los Tambos Boutique
• Katari Hotel at Plaza de Armas

Day 10: Colca Canyon

You cannot miss visiting Colca Canyon while you’re in Arequipa! It is a must on your Peru itinerary. It is one of the world’s deepest canyons and a great place for condor sightings. There are several tour and trek options to Colca Canyon from Arequipa. The most popular overnight trips in the canyon are 2 day, 1 night or 3 day, 2 nights.

I chose to do the 2 day, 1 night tour that included transport to the next stop on the itinerary: Puno.

I left Arequipa in the morning and traveled to the town of Chivay where I spent the night. The drive was beautiful, and we got to see pre-Inca terraces, llamas and alpacas, and scenic mountains and hills. The tour takes you to a natural hot spring, so bring a bathing suit if you’d like to visit the springs! If not, you’ll have time to relax and explore the area around the springs.

Chivay Hotel Recommendations:

• Casa Andina Standard Colca

Day 11: Colca Canyon to Puno

The next morning, I woke up bright and early to continue the Colca Canyon tour! Today’s highlight was Mirador del Cruz where I saw magnificent condors! We did a moderate hike through that area and saw so many condors. Then we traveled through small villages near Colca Canyon for a few hours until we reached Puno.

Take the rest of the day to explore Puno and spend the night here.

You can choose to spend the night in historical Puno or a night on Lake Titicaca! Staying on Lake Titicaca is definitely a bucket list experience and I recommend staying on the lake for a night if you can.

Puno Hotel Recommendation:

• Hotel Hacienda Puno Centro Histórico

Lake Titicaca Hotel Recommendation:

• Amalia Titicaca Lodge
• UROS TITICACA LODGE Puno Peru
• Uros Samaraña Uta Lodge

Day 12: Puno and Lake Titicaca

Today, we are visiting the world’s highest navigable body of water, Lake Titicaca. Half of Lake Titicaca is actually in Bolivia and the other in Peru, and the Uros people live on floating reeds on the lake. Visiting Lake Titicaca is the main tourist activity in the city of Puno and why I chose to stop here.

I highly recommend visiting Lake Titicaca and doing a full day tour to visit the Uros Islands and Taquile Island. It is fascinating learning about the history, culture, and lifestyle today of the indigenous people living on the Uros Islands and Taquile Island. They actually make most of their living on tourism now thus visitors are very important to these people!

Day 13: Puno to Cusco

Today, we are journeying to the historic capital of the Incan empire. Cusco was my favorite city in Peru, and one of the highlights of the trip. I highly recommend spending several days in Cusco to enjoy all that the city has to offer! You’ll find Spanish colonial architecture, charming winding streets, delicious Peruvian cuisine, and well-preserved archaeological ruins.

We left Puno around 10:00 in the morning with PeruHop and arrived in Cusco by 5:30 in the afternoon. I spent the evening strolling around historic Cusco and had a delicious dinner at Chicha. I called it an early night, excited to explore more of Cusco in the morning.

Cusco Hotel Recommendation:

• Antigua Casona San Blas
• JW Marriott El Convento Cusco
• Amaru Colonial

Day 14: Cusco

Take today to spend time exploring all that Cusco has to offer! Some of the highlights include Qorikancha, the San Blas district, Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, the Twelve-angled stone, and the San Pedro market.

A great way to learn about the history of the city is by taking a half-day guided tour of Cusco!

I had some amazing food in Cusco, and want to share some of my favorite restaurants:

• Chicha por Gaston Acurio
• Morena Peruvian Kitchen
• Jack’s Cafe
• Pachapapa
• Limbus Restobar

You can’t go wrong with any of these choices – Chicha, Morena, and Pachapapa all serve Peruvian cuisine, but each menu is unique. Jack’s Cafe is actually an Australian restaurant serving a variety of sandwiches, burgers, soups, breakfast items, and other comfort foods. Limbus Restobar offers a great view of Cusco and people visit for drinks as well.

Day 15: Cusco to Aguas Calientes

It’s time for you to make your way to visit Machu Picchu! When I bought my tickets for Machu Picchu online, I selected the earliest ticket time (6:00 AM), so I planned to spend the night before in Aguas Calientes. Aguas Calientes is the closest town to Machu Picchu and is located at the base of the site. The only way to visit Machu Picchu other than doing the guided treks is by going to the town of Aguas Calientes and taking the bus up to the entrance.

Note: I found my own way to Machu Picchu but you can also do a tour of Machu Picchu from Cusco. It is cheaper to find your own way to Machu Picchu but it is way more convenient to do a full day tour from Cusco.

This is how you can find your own way from Cusco to Machu Picchu:

Transportation from Cusco to Aguas Calientes

There are several ways to get from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. To take the train you’ll have to get from Cusco to the Poray or Ollantaytambo train stations. To do this you could take a private taxi, but that can get quite costly. I chose to take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes because there were more time options. Fortunately, I found a much cheaper way to get to Ollantaytambo than taking a private taxi. I took a colectivo taxi there from historic Cusco and then bought tickets from PeruRail to get to Aguas Calientes. I have written a more in-depth guide to Machu Picchu that details getting there, where to buy tickets, and when to visit.

Aguas Calientes

After I arrived in Aguas Calientes, I went straight to the ticket office to buy my bus ticket for Machu Picchu for the next morning. You can only buy tickets in person at the office, so there’s no need to try and find tickets online. Aguas Calientes is a small town, so all the restaurants and lodging are within walking distance, including the bus stop for Machu Picchu.

Note: Although I chose to spend the night in Aguas Calientes, you can do a day trip to Machu Picchu and back. Machu Picchu is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and it took me approximately 2 hours to leisurely walk through the grounds.

Aguas Calientes Hotel Recommendation:

• Jaya Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel
• Rupa Rupa High Jungle Eco B&B
• MAPILAND- Hotel Boutique

Day 16: Machu Picchu

Finally, the day you’ve been waiting for is here! Machu Picchu! The highlight of any travel itinerary for Peru.

Getting to the entrance

As mentioned, I had booked the 6:00 AM entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, so I took the first bus up there which is at 5:30 AM. I was in line by 4:30 AM for the bus, and there was already quite a line by the time I arrived. Although the bus schedule is every 30 minutes, there were multiple buses at 5:30 AM lined up to take people up, so don’t worry if you can’t get on the very first bus.

Visiting the site

The ride from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu takes about 20 minutes. You’ll need your passports and tickets printed out and ready to show when you get to there. Machu Picchu is set up as a one-way circuit with signs guiding you along the way. There are also optional hikes along the way with the most popular ones being the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge. The best photo spots are near the Guardhouse (walk through the entrance and turn left to trek up hill).

That morning, I was among the first 50 people to enter the grounds of Machu Picchu. I found it to be very quiet and peaceful during my visit. But by the time I was leaving about 2 hours later, I could see that the Guardhouse area was swamped with people. I was definitely glad that I visited earlier and left before it got busy.

Back to Cusco

I took the bus back down to Aguas Calientes and the train to the Poray station where I got a taxi back to Cusco. It is pretty easy to find other travelers to get a taxi together to split the fare, since everyone getting off at the Poray station is heading to Cusco.

Day 17: Sacred Valley

Visiting Sacred Valley is a must when you’re in Peru. This fertile area surrounding Cusco is scattered with numerous archaeological sites, the most famous ones being Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Sacred Valley Ticket Options

There are 4 types of tourist tickets that allow you to visit the most popular tourist attractions in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The options are:

• 1. Full Tourist Ticket (130 soles/valid for 10 days): includes the 16 main attractions of Cusco and the Sacred Valley (Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, Museum of Contemporary Art, Regional Historical Museum, Popular Art Museum, Qoricancha, Qosqo Native Art Center, Monument to the Inca Pachacuteq, Pikillaqta, Tipón, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray)
• 2. Partial Tourist Ticket – Circuit 1: Cusco Archaeological Sites (70 soles/valid for 1 day): allows entrance to the main archaeological sites in Cusco (Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay)
• 3. Partial Tourist Ticket – Circuit 2: Museums and South Valley (70 soles/valid for 2 days): includes entrances to museums in Cusco and sites in the South Valley (Museum of Contemporary Art, Regional Historical Museum, Popular Art Museum, Qoricancha, Qosqo Native Art Center, Monument to the Inca Pachacuteq, Pikillaqta, Tipón)
• 4. Partial Tourist Ticket – Circuit 3: Sacred Valley (70 soles/valid for 2 days): includes entrance to the major archeological sites of the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray)

Where to Purchase Tickets

You can purchase these tourist tickets in person in multiple office locations in Cusco (COSITUC office or tourist information center on Avenida El Sol 103) or at the entrance of the major archeological sites. Based on your own personal preference, you can decide whether you want to buy the full tourist ticket or the partial circuits. If you do decide to purchase the tourist ticket for all 16 sites, then I would add a few more days in Cusco. The ticket is valid for 10 days which should be plenty of time to visit them all.

Circuit #3: Day 1

I elected to do Circuit #3 which covered the Sacred Valley sites I wanted to visit the most: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray. Please do not base your Peru itinerary on the circuit I chose – it is completely up to you which sites you want to visit.

Since the tourist ticket was valid for 2 days, I decided to split up the sites and visited Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chincero on day 1 and Moray on the next. I did day 1 of the Sacred Valley circuit with a tour group and really enjoyed having a tour guide with us to explain the significance of each site. It is magnificent how well-preserved these sites still are!

Day 18: Sacred Valley Part 2

This day is a continuation of the Sacred Valley circuit. As mentioned previously, it is based on your personal preference which ticket you selected, and you don’t have to visit the same sites as me.

Circuit #3: Day 2

On day 2 of my Sacred Valley circuit, I visited Moray for the archeological site and Maras for the famous salt terraces. The entrance for Moray was included in my tourist ticket, but the entrance to the Salineras de Maras was not (10 soles/person). I had researched tours for Maras and Moray, but found most tours to be very expensive and overpriced as Moray and Maras are not far from Cusco.

In the end, I decided to visit Moray and Maras a more local way by taking a colectivo toward Urubamba from Cusco. I told the driver that I was getting off at Maras and then hired a taxi (there were several taxis available at the drop-off point as it is a known drop off point, but do bargain with the taxi drivers) to take me to Salineras de Maras and the Moray archeological site. I got back to Cusco by having the taxi drop me off at the same spot I got out of the colectivo and caught the next van heading back to Cusco.

Note: Taking a colectivo is riskier since there is no set schedule. Many of the colectivos heading back to Cusco were full by the time it stopped in Maras, so I had to wait for a few rounds for a vacant one.

Day 19: Rainbow Mountain

Now that you’ve spent several days in Cusco and the surrounding area, you are fully acclimatized to the altitude and ready to hike Rainbow Mountain! Located only 3.5 hours away from Cusco, Rainbow Mountain is a sight to be seen! I purposely saved hiking Rainbow Mountain as one of the last activities to do on the Peru itinerary as the starting altitude for the hike is over 14,000 ft! I recommend visiting Rainbow Mountain with a tour group and have written a detailed guide dedicated to hiking Rainbow Mountain.

Day 20: Cusco to Lima

Today is a travel day as you fly from Cusco back to Lima. The flights from Cusco to Lima are fairly inexpensive (~ $30 USD) and frequent. The Cusco airport is small and newer so the process was quite smooth, and security did not take long. It was a remarkably quick flight; we had only been in the air an hour and a half and we were already landing in Lima. Depending on the time you land, you could explore the other districts that you haven’t explored yet, such as the historic district.

Day 21: Lima and Depart Peru

It is your last day in Peru! Time to say goodbye to this beautiful country…

I recommend spending this last day eating your favorite Peruvian foods to your heart’s desire and checking out any other sightseeing spots you might have wanted to visit.

I had a late evening flight departing Lima, so I spent the day in the historic district and visited Convento de Santo Domingo, Government Palace of Peru, Plaza de Armas de Lima, Cathedral of Lima, and Church of San Pedro.

Later in the afternoon, I ventured to the Parque de la Exposicion and Circuito Magico del Agua which is a large park with uniquely shaped hedges and water fountains that come to life at night through a light and water show. It is a can-not-miss experience. Get your tickets here!

It was a great way to spend my last day in Peru!

Thanks for following along with my itinerary for Peru! Peru is one of my favorite trips so far, and I am so glad I got to spend 3 wonderful weeks in this amazing country. Hopefully, this guide has helped you in making your own itinerary for Peru! Peru is so much more than Machu Picchu, and I hope you spend the full 3 weeks (or more) to see as much of Peru as you can!

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The post Perfect 3 Week Peru Itinerary: The Ultimate Planning Guide appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

I had dreamed of visiting Peru ever since I first saw photos of Machu Picchu years ago. The Inca civilization captivated me, and I wanted to so badly visit the mysterious archeological site that the Inca abandoned. I finally fulfilled that dream when I traveled through Peru for three incredible weeks. Machu Picchu inspired me to visit Peru, but Peru is so much more than Machu Picchu. You would be doing yourself a huge disservice if you traveled to Peru and only saw Machu Picchu. Here are the places you have to visit in Peru!

Other Peru Related Posts

Places You Have to Visit in Peru

1. Lima, Peru

If you’re flying into Peru, chances are that you’re flying into the Lima airport! Although Lima is an entry point to Peru, you’d be amiss if you didn’t spend time in this vibrant city. Lima is full of delicious cuisine in all corners, stunning cliff views in Miraflores, history in Central Lima, and colorful street art in Barranco.

Here are places in Lima that you cannot miss out on:

• Historic Center of Lima (Centro Histórico):
  • Plaza de Armas: The main square surrounded by important buildings such as the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop’s Palace.
  • San Francisco Monastery: Known for its catacombs and beautiful colonial architecture.
• Barranco District: You’ll find murals all over the Barranco district as well as colorful buildings and unique architecture. If you simply wander around the Barranco district, you might find some surprises and hidden gems.
  • Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros): A romantic spot with a charming bridge.
  • Bajada de los Baños: A bohemian district with art galleries, cafes, and bars.
• Miraflores District: This is a very popular tourist area in Lima and a central spot for shopping and dining.
  • Larcomar: A shopping center built into the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
  • Grau Miraflores Park: Clifftop park with scenic ocean views and palms
  • Parque del Amor: Landscaped park overlooking the ocean with a huge kissing sculpture, mosaic walls, and food vendors.
  • Parque Kennedy: A popular park with markets, street performers, and many friendly cats.
• Larco Museum (Museo Larco): Houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art, including pottery, textiles, and gold.
• National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru: Located in Pueblo Libre, it offers a comprehensive overview of Peru’s history.
• Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua): Parque de la Reserva is a large park with uniquely shaped hedges and water fountains that come to life at night through a light and water show. It is a can-not-miss experience. Get your tickets here!

Check out these fun tours in Lima, Peru!

2. Huacachina (Ica, Peru)

Huacachina is a desert oasis with a lagoon in the center surrounded by restaurants, bars, and lodging.

You can also easily do a day trip from Lima to Huacachina – check out a tour from Lima here.

It is well worth a visit to spend some time in the sun and enjoy some fun activities such as sand-boarding and dune buggying.

My favorite part was climbing the sand dunes and watching the sunset over the small town. I recommend spending at least a day here!

3. Laguna 69 (Huaraz, Peru)

Laguna 69 is the most beautiful lake I’ve seen so far in all my travels, but it was also the most difficult hike I’ve ever done. The hike takes over 5 hours roundtrip, covers 7.5 miles, and reaches an altitude of over 15,000 feet, but the view was completely worth it. It is one of the many lakes in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru. Click here for my guide on hiking Laguna 69

4. Paracas National Reserve & Ballestas Island (Paracas, Peru)

Paracas National Reserve is where the desert meets the sea. The views are incredible! There are unique rock formations as well as sweeping views of the ocean. Additionally, I spent a night in Paracas and did a tour of the Ballestas Islands off the coast of Peru. Ballestas Island is known as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos” and for good reason! I saw so many birds, sea lions, and penguins, and the boat tour was very cheap. The tours typically last 2 hours and depart from San Martin Port in Paracas in the mornings.

5. Arequipa, Peru

Peru’s second most populous city, Arequipa, is known as the “White City” because its buildings are made from white stone. The city is surrounded by three volcanoes and it boasts a rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, and stunning natural landscapes. It is also well-known for its established culinary scene. You have to indulge in the local cuisine, including dishes like rocoto relleno, adobo, and the famous dish called “chupe de camarones” (shrimp chowder).

Here are some places you cannot miss in Arequipa:

• Santa Catalina Monastery (Monasterio de Santa Catalina): Exploring this well-preserved monastery, a city within a city, with colorful streets, plazas, and historic buildings was a highlight of my time in Arequipa
• Arequipa Cathedral: You have to visit the main cathedral located on the Plaza de Armas, featuring a mix of architectural styles and stunning arches.
• Plaza de Armas: Enjoy the main square, surrounded by colonial buildings and featuring a beautiful fountain, where you can people-watch, shop, and dine.
• Museum of Andean Sanctuaries (Museo Santuarios Andinos): Discover the fascinating exhibits, including the mummy of “Juanita,” a young Inca girl sacrificed on a nearby volcano.
• Yanahuara District: Walk through the charming streets of Yanahuara and enjoy the scenic viewpoint with views of Misti Volcano.
• Volcano Misti: Consider hiking or taking a tour to the Misti Volcano for spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
• La Compañía Church (Iglesia de la Compañía): Admire the Baroque-style architecture and beautiful frescoes in this Jesuit church.
• Claustros de La Compañía: Next to La Compañía Church is an exquisitely preserved 18th-century cloister converted to a complex of shops and cafes.

6. Ruta del Sillar

Another site you cannot miss in Arequipa is Ruta del Sillar! It is only about 30 minutes outside of the historical center of Arequipa and worth venturing out of the city center. Arequipa is known as the “White City” due to the white volcanic rock or “sillar” used in the buildings around the city. You can visit Ruta del Sillar to see the quarries and witness the extraction of sillar.

The best way to see Ruta del Sillar is by booking a guided tour from Arequipa!

7. Colca Canyon

Hours away from Arequipa, lays one of the deepest canyons in the world! If you’re visiting Peru, you have to visit Colca Canyon. It is a stunning natural attraction that can’t be missed! You can choose to do a day trip from Arequipa or go on am overnight tour.

Hiking and trekking is also very popular in this area. Colca Canyon offers various trekking routes, ranging from short hikes to more extended multi-day treks. The Colca Canyon trek is a challenging but rewarding experience, allowing you to explore the canyon’s diverse landscapes.

Here are highlights of Colca Canyon:

• Condor Cross (Cruz del Condor): This is a popular viewpoint along the canyon where you can witness the majestic Andean condors soaring on the thermal currents. It’s best to arrive early in the morning for the best chance to see these impressive birds.
• Chivay: The main town near Colca Canyon, Chivay serves as a gateway to the canyon. It has hot springs, a market, and is a good base for exploring the area.
• Cabanaconde: This is a small village at the edge of the canyon and serves as a starting point for some of the trekking routes. The town itself has a charming atmosphere and offers beautiful views of the canyon.
• Hot Springs (La Calera): Relax in the natural hot springs near Chivay, known as La Calera. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of trekking and enjoy the surrounding landscapes.

Regardless of whether you want to do a day trip, an overnight trip, or a trek, the best way to see Colca Canyon is by booking a guided tour!

8. Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is a large, deep lake located in the Andes on the border of Peru and Bolivia. It is considered one of the highest navigable lakes in the world, sitting at an elevation of about 12,507 feet above sea level.

It is known for its stunning scenery and cultural significance and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is dotted with several islands, some of which are inhabited. The lake has been a vital part of the Andean cultures for centuries, and it is associated with various myths and legends.

The Uros people, who live on floating islands made of totora reeds, are one of the indigenous groups that inhabit Lake Titicaca. Additionally, Taquile Island and Amantani Island are known for their indigenous communities that have preserved their traditional ways of life.

Check out these guided tours around Lake Titicaca!

9. Cusco, Peru

Filled with delicious cuisine, Incan sites, grand churches, and panoramic views, Cusco was one of my favorite places in Peru. I recommend spending at least 3 days here to take it all in. Some of my favorite spots include Qorikancha, Cathedral of Santo Domingo, Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuaman, Museo Inka, San Blas district, and the San Pedro market. I also went chocolate tasting, window-shopped, and wandered aimlessly around the historic center. I loved the laid back atmosphere of Cusco. This is one of those places I’d visit over and over again!

A great way to learn about the history of the city is by taking a half-day guided tour of Cusco!

Cusco is also the starting point for the iconic Inca Trail, leading to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The city itself offers a blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture, making it a fascinating destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

10. Rainbow Mountain

Only a short day trip from Cusco, Rainbow Mountain is a fitting name for this colorful part of the Willkanuta Mountain Range. Recently, Rainbow Mountain has become one of the most popular places to visit in Peru.

I found this hike much easier than Laguna 69 (though that may be because I was much more acclimatized to the altitude at this point). The hike isn’t very long (2 hours) and is mostly flat the entire way. However, the altitude does reach over 17,000 feet so I would not suggest doing this hike before you’ve spent a few days in Cusco and become acclimatized to a higher altitude. You can book a guided tour from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain! Read more on how to visit Rainbow Mountain here.

11. Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley is a lush, green region of Peru with Incan ruins scattered throughout the area. This area was prized by the Inca for its fertile lands, and today, it is a great place to learn about how the Inca used to live. It is a place filled with a lot of culture and history.

There are many Inca sites in this area, and you can buy a Sacred Valley tourist pass for admission to the sites you want to visit. If you want to visit these sites yourself, there are three circuits that cover different sites (or you could purchase the pass that covers all three circuits). I chose to purchase Circuit #3 which covered Ollantaytambo, Pisaq, Chinchero, and Moray. These Inca sites are some of the most historically significant places in Peru.

Another option is to do a Sacred Valley Guided Tour!

12. Salineras de Maras (Maras, Peru)

Salineras de Maras is located in the Sacred Valley region near Cusco and is made up of salt pools carved into the mountain. It is quite a sight to see as there are over 3,000 salt pools, but don’t go into a non-permitted area as locals still harvest salt from these pools. The entrance fee is 10 soles, and you can only pay using cash (no foreign currency or card) if you’re going by yourself.

A great way to see Salineras de Maras is actually doing a day tour and seeing other Sacred Valley sights!

13. Machu Picchu

Last but not least…Machu Picchu. I don’t think much needs to be said about visiting this Wonder of the World. This site gets more visitors than any of the other places in Peru, so you need to be prepared for your visit whether it is through a group tour, a guided trek, or self visit in order to get the most out of your visit. Click here for my guide on visiting Machu Picchu and what it was like visiting Machu Picchu!

Make sure to get your Machu Picchu ticket here in advance!

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At an altitude of over 17,000 feet and located just 3.5 hours from Cusco, Peru, Rainbow Mountain is quite a sight to be seen. Officially known as Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain has recently exploded as a major tourist destination due to the exposure of streaks of red, orange, and yellow along the mountain. A visit to Peru is not complete without hiking Rainbow Mountain! 

Here’s a guide for a visit to Rainbow Mountain, what to expect, what to pack, and how to prepare for the altitude.

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Guide to Visiting Rainbow Mountain

How to Get There

Most tours to Rainbow Mountain start from Cusco in the early morning and arrive back in Cusco in the late afternoon. I do not recommend finding your own way there as other transport options aren’t as reliable as a tour and private taxis would be far too expensive. There are plenty of tour options to Rainbow Mountain. You can book online through sites such as Viator and GetYourGuide, or you can book tours in-person in Cusco. However, the price of tours ranges drastically. I’ve seen tours upwards of over $100 USD!

I prefer to have my tours booked in advance in case of limited availability when booking in person. After searching the web, I discovered Rainbow Mountain Travels. I found it to be far cheaper than any of the other online tours I had seen. The full-day tour is $30 USD/person and includes roundtrip transportation from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain, a professional guide that speaks both English and Spanish, the entrance fee, breakfast, and lunch!

Overview of Tour Itinerary

• 3:00 – 3:30 AM: Pick up from hotel
• 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM: Breakfast
• 6:30 AM: Arrive at start of Rainbow Mountain hike
• 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Ascend Rainbow Mountain
• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Descend Rainbow Mountain
• 10 AM – 3:00 PM: Drive back to Cusco with 1 hour stop for lunch
• 3:00 PM: Arrive in Cusco

The tour picks you up in Cusco between 3 – 3:30 AM. Then, it will be a 1.5-hour drive before you stop for 30 minutes for a simple breakfast (bread, butter, jam, tea, and coffee). After the breakfast stop, you’ll drive for another hour before you reach the starting point of the Rainbow Mountain hike. Then, you’ll hike for 1.5 – 2 hours from the trailhead to reach the peak of Rainbow Mountain. Your speed depends on your fitness level and how acclimatized you are to the altitude. The tour guide gives time for everyone to take photos and relax. Afterward, it is an hour’s descent down the mountain. Soon after, you will enjoy a buffet lunch and arrive back at Cusco around 3:00 PM. Even if you don’t choose Rainbow Mountain Travels, most tour itineraries will include the items described above.

Overall, I thought that Rainbow Mountain Travels was very organized, and the guide was great! I actually preferred that we left earlier than most other tours because we got to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint without it being too crowded. By the time we were heading down the mountain, we saw a lot more tour groups hiking up.

What to Expect

I want to paint a clear picture of what to expect when hiking Rainbow Mountain. Quite honestly, I was terrified of hiking Rainbow Mountain just because of all the other guides I had read online. I had previously hiked Laguna 69 and remembered how hard it was on my body due to the altitude (15,092 ft). Crazily enough, Rainbow Mountain’s altitude is even higher (17,060 ft)! However, while I was not at all acclimatized when I hiked Laguna 69, I had spent several days in Cusco before hiking Rainbow Mountain which gave my body time to adjust. In the end, I actually thought that Rainbow Mountain was much easier!

Length of Hike

The positives are that the hike isn’t very far (a little over 4 miles roundtrip). It is actually a flat walk most of the way. It is only at the very end of the hike that there is a steep ascent for around 200 yards. Almost everyone will feel the effects of the altitude at the peak but most will be fine during the hike. The path is easy to follow and mostly straight.

Pacing

Don’t feel pressured to keep up with your group if you want to take it slow! That is the most important advice I have for you when doing any high-altitude hikes. You know your body best. Take it slow, and don’t rush yourself. Most guides will simply let the group walk at their own pace, but they will keep an eye out for the stragglers to make sure they don’t need additional assistance.

Additionally, the hike is quite beautiful! Focus on your surroundings and enjoy the nature that surrounds you. There are beautiful mountains and unique scenery to be seen throughout the hike. Plus, you’ll see llamas and alpacas along the way!

Optional Red Valley Visit

When you get to the peak of Rainbow Mountain, there is also an option to visit the Red Valley (an additional $6 USD/person). Instead of taking the same path down as you ascended, you can descend through the Red Valley which will take you back to the start of the hike. You will get to see all shades of red streaked across the valley!

Additional Information

It is important to note that there are portable bathrooms along the path. If you need to use the restroom, have at least 5 soles handy to pay to use the restroom. On my way back down, I also saw families selling snacks and candy bars. You can always buy something to snack on if you get hungry!

I do want to mention that there are horses available for you to ride for 60 – 70 soles with a local to guide the horse. Although I did not ride a horse, they are available if you need one. I want to emphasize that the horse will only cover the flat portion of the hike and will not take you up to the peak of Rainbow Mountain. You will still need to climb the steep part yourself.

What to Pack

I suggest bringing a lightweight day bag filled with high-protein snacks and about 2 liters of water for the duration of your 12-hour tour. The breakfast provided is very light, so you will definitely need to bring some snacks to sustain yourself throughout the hike. Additionally, I would bring a waterproof jacket or poncho, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (essential due to the exposure at such a high altitude). Depending on the tour company you chose, you might also need to bring your passport (please double-check with your tour company).

You should also prepare for all kinds of weather since you’re leaving early in the morning from Cusco and returning in the late afternoon. Wear layers and comfortable clothing for the hike. Make sure you are wearing adequate shoes such as trekking shoes or hiking shoes. Do not wear sandals or flip-flops for this hike.

Prepare for Altitude

The worst mistake you can make when attempting to hike Rainbow Mountain is not being prepared for the altitude. I made that horrible mistake when I hiked Laguna 69 in Huaraz within 2 days of arriving in Peru with no time to acclimatize. I spent over 4 days in Cusco and its surrounding areas before hiking the Rainbow Mountain, and it made a world of a difference! During the Rainbow Mountain hike, I didn’t experience the breathlessness and the pounding heartbeat that I did during my Laguna 69 hike. I only had to stop to take breaks on the last part of the hike where it was steep.

I recommend that you spend at least 2 days in Cusco before attempting the Rainbow Mountain hike. On top of that, drink plenty of cocoa tea, and take altitude sickness medicine (if prescribed) ahead of time to prepare for the hike. You are starting the hike at over 14,000 ft and ascending to a peak of 17,000 ft. The hike is very doable but only if you take care of yourself and allow your body to acclimatize.

Was it worth it?

Absolutely! In my opinion, I think it is well worth a visit to Rainbow Mountain if you’re in Peru. I saw some jaded reviews that mentioned how crowded it was or how the colors weren’t as brilliant as seen online, but I did not find either to be true. It actually wasn’t crowded when I reached the peak of Rainbow Mountain because my tour group left so early from Cusco. Additionally, the weather is temperamental, but I visited Peru in May (dry season) and found the skies to be clear and saw colorful streaks during my Rainbow Mountain visit. Be sure to research what the weather is going to be like during the season of your visit!

If you’ve acclimatized to the altitude and prepared for the hike as mentioned in this article, then hiking Rainbow Mountain is honestly not too difficult. The hike is flat most of the way, and it is not a far hike. Don’t be intimidated like I was Take your time, listen to your body, and stop when you need to. It is so important for you to hike at your own pace to enjoy the entire experience!

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Would you be surprised to hear that there aren’t many options for visiting Machu Picchu? You can bet I was. I expected multiple ways to visit one of the most popular attractions in the world, however, I soon learned that there are only a few transportation and ticket options. To that end, I spent countless hours researching the best and cheapest way to travel to Machu Picchu, and I have compiled all the information I learned to put together the ultimate Machu Picchu travel guide!

You have the options of guided treks, tour groups, or you can find your own way there. I found that finding your own way there is far cheaper and offers greater flexibility in visiting this Wonder of the World.

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How to get to the entrance of Machu Picchu

To arrive at the entrance of Machu Picchu, you will need to take several different modes of transportation. 

1. Cusco to Aguas Calientes

First, you need to get to Aguas Calientes, which is a small town at the base of the entrance. The only way up to Machu Picchu is from this town.

For the purpose of this article, the starting point is Cusco. You will need to get to Cusco first whether by plane, bus, taxi, etc. From Cusco, you have the option of taking a train from the Poroy station or the Ollantaytambo Station to the Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) station. The Poroy station is closer to Cusco, but there are fewer time options for the Poroy route. Also, the train tickets are more expensive from Poroy as it covers a larger distance. 

• To get to the Poroy station, you can take a taxi from Cusco. The taxi should be around 25 – 35 soles. 

• To get to the Ollamtanbo station, you have multiple options but the cheapest option is to take a “colectivo taxi” from Historical Cusco (see pinned location below). It is only 10 soles/person and it drops you off at the train station in Ollantaytambo. However, you will have to make sure you get to the taxi spot with plenty of time to spare since the taxi only leaves when it’s full (the taxi is a large van and seats around 15 people). When I got to the spot, I was the first in the taxi and waited around 30 minutes for it to fill up completely. The amount of time is dependent on many factors such as time of day and whether it’s peak tourist season. Here is the location where the “colectivo taxi” pick up in Google Maps:

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2. Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

From Aguas Calientes, there are shuttle buses that take you up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. They arrive at least once every 30 minutes, and during peak hours, I saw multiple buses going up and down. Aguas Calientes is a small town, so the whole town is very walkable. The train station, restaurants, lodgings, and the bus shuttle pickup are all within a 5 to 10-minute walk.

Here is the location of the bus shuttle pickup in Google Maps:

Make sure you are in line for the bus at least one hour before your entrance time. There will be a crowd of people already waiting, and it takes 30 minutes to get from Aguas Calientes to the entrance on the shuttle.

Note: If you’re wanting to take the first shuttle up to Machu Picchu (entrance time of 6:00 AM), the line starts forming around 4:00 AM so you will need to be in line well before an hour. Once you’re on the shuttle, let the excitement settle in! You’re about to see one of the seven wonders of the world. 

I actually spent a night in Aguas Calientes before heading to Machu Picchu because the Machu Picchu entrance time I selected was for 6 AM. If your entrance time is later in the day then it is possible to leave Cusco early in the morning and go to Machu Picchu the same day. It all depends on the train schedules. Note: some train times are more expensive than others.  

Where to Purchase Tickets

I found it difficult to locate the official sites and links to purchase tickets for Machu Picchu and the transportation. I suggest buying directly from these official sites rather than other sites that might not be legit. Other than the Machu Picchu shuttle bus ticket, you will need to purchase all the others ahead of time. You cannot buy tickets to Machu Picchu at the entrance. Additionally, if you’re planning to visit during peak season from July to August, you should buy your tickets 3 months in advance.

Here are the links where you can buy your tickets:

• Machu Picchu entrance tickets
• Peru Rail tickets
• Inca Rail tickets
• Machu Picchu Shuttle Bus tickets: You can purchase the bus tickets when you arrive in Aguas Calientes at the ticket office. You will need your passport, and it is $24 USD per adult roundtrip. The bus ticket office is very close to where the bus picks up. Ask a local where the ticket office is, and they will point you to where you need to go.

When to Visit Machu Picchu

Best Time of Year

Machu Picchu is open all year round, so you can plan to visit any day of the year! However, if you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail, it is closed in February. Peru’s climate has a rainy season and a dry season. Peru’s rainy season lasts from November to April. It rains nearly every day during this period, but visiting during the rainy season means that it would be much less crowded. The dry season is from April to the end of October. These months bring sunny and clear weather along with an influx of travelers. I would plan my travel to visit Machu Picchu from May to June or September to October when the weather is nice yet it is not nearly as crowded. But this world wonder is worth a visit any time of the year.

Best Time of Day

Machu Picchu is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM with most of the crowd arriving later in the morning and staying until the mid-afternoon. If you want to visit during off-peak times, I suggest booking the 6:00 AM entrance ticket or getting there later in the day as crowds begin to leave. However, I have heard that early mornings could mean fog which blocks the iconic view of Machu Picchu. If you don’t want to take your chance on fog, then I would visit later in the day. I visited Machu Picchu in mid-May with a 6:00 AM entrance ticket and there were only a handful of people there. I got to see a beautiful sunrise over Machu Picchu, and I left before it got very crowded. Overall, I had a great experience visiting Machu Picchu, and I hope you do too!

I hope this guide has helped in planning your travel to Machu Picchu! I certainly enjoyed being able to visit on my own and without breaking the bank. Visiting on my own gave me autonomy over my schedule and allowed me to be one of the first to enter Machu Picchu that day. Seeing the sunrise over Machu Picchu is an experience I will never forget.

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Situated in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru, Laguna 69 is a stunning blue glacial lake surrounded by majestic mountains. Visiting Laguna 69 has been on my bucket list ever since I first saw photos of the lake on social media. However, that is easier said than done. Hiking Laguna 69 is quite demanding as the hike starts around 12,600 ft (3,850 m) and ascends to an altitude of over 14,000 ft (4,550 m). This place will figuratively and literally take your breath away. The good news is that with a bit of preparation, you will be ready for the hike. I have put together this guide on everything you need to know about Laguna 69 to best prepare you for your hike!

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Guide to Hiking Laguna 69

Getting to the Trailhead

Let’s start with getting to the trailhead of the hike.

As mentioned earlier, Laguna 69 is located in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru which is about 300 miles (480 km) north of Lima. Huaraz is the main town you pass through to get to Laguna 69.

Lima to Huaraz

The easiest way to get from Lima to Huaraz is by bus. There are many notable bus companies that run this route such as Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa. The route runs multiple times daily, and it takes around 9 hours. I traveled from Lima to Huaraz on Cruz del Sur and found the ride to be quite comfortable. The bus had large reclining leather seats, and the fare included lunch. If you want to save time, you could also take an overnight bus so you won’t have to waste time during the day (I took an overnight bus back to Lima).

Huaraz to Laguna 69

Laguna 69 is only accessible by car or bus. From Huaraz, Laguna 69 is a 3-hour ride away.

First, you have to decide whether you want to go on a tour or do the trek on your own. If you do go on a tour, there are plenty of tour companies in Huaraz that offer day treks to Laguna 69. The schedules for these tours will be relatively the same. Compare tour prices online or in-person so you’re not paying more than you should. If you want to do the trek on your own, the trail is clearly marked that you won’t need a guide. However, doing the trek on your own adds the stress of securing your own transportation to and from the Laguna 69 trailhead. Taking a taxi could cost a lot more than a guided tour. I found it much easier to just do a tour. It was inexpensive, and the guide gave me an additional sense of reassurance.

Recommended Tour

If you’re interested in a tour, I used Huascarán Adventure Travel Agency. My point of contact, Paulino, was very responsive, and we communicated through email prior to the trek. The tour was $15/person and included roundtrip transportation and a guide. The bus picked us up at 4:30 AM and then we made a stop for breakfast (not included) before driving to the trailhead. I highly recommend you to eat breakfast before the tour and load up on protein and carbs.

What to Expect During the Trek

The trek typically starts early, because it’s a 3-hour drive to the trailhead from Huaraz.

The trek takes about 5 hours roundtrip and covers 7.5 mi (12 km). This hike is classified as medium-hard. It starts out flat and then gradually increases in elevation. The path is easy to follow. You ascend one mountain and then reach a flat plateau. Then, you hike up another mountain to reach the lake.

The hike to the actual lake takes 3 hours. Then, most people take an hour lunch break at the lake before heading back down. However, I took almost 4 hours to reach the lake due to not being acclimatized to the altitude (more on this later). It is another 2-hour trek to get back to the trailhead.

People go at different paces depending on how the altitude affects them and their level of fitness. If you go on a tour, the guide will check in on you and help you keep track of time. Do not rush yourself if you notice yourself falling behind the group.

Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful nature as you hike! You’re surrounded by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and grazing cattle. Take in the wonderful views, and remember to listen to your body, taking breaks as needed.

Preparing for Laguna 69

The hardest part about the trek is the high elevation. You reach an incredibly high altitude, so you need to be well prepared for the hike. I suggest spending at least one full day in Huaraz before you attempt the hike. Altitude sickness is very real.

I only arrived in Huaraz the evening before my trek, and it was a huge mistake. I did not have a chance to acclimatize yet. During my hike, I struggled a lot. The thin air made my heart race, and it felt like it was going to jump out of my chest. I had to stop every few steps just to slow down my breathing. This hike was the most difficult hike I’ve ever done, and it was because I was not prepared for the altitude. Later in my trip, I hiked Rainbow Mountain, which is even higher than Laguna 69, and found that hike to be much easier because I was acclimated by that point.

If you came from a place of high altitude like Cusco and your body is used to the thin air, then you should be fine. However, if your body isn’t used to the high altitude, you should spend as many days in Huaraz as you can before the trek. Some people also take prescribed altitude sickness pills and drink cocoa tea to deal with the altitude.

Additionally, you need to be well-rested, well-nourished and hydrated before the trek. It is a full day of trekking, and you will need the energy.

What to Bring

You should bring some Peruvian soles and a backpack for the trek. Include snacks, lunch (I packed peanut butter sandwiches, bananas, and granola bars), and water (at least 2.5 liters). Don’t forget to bring sunscreen due to the exposure at such a high altitude.

What to Wear

I recommend wearing layers for hiking Laguna 69. You depart from Huaraz early and return later in the evening. The morning and evening are cold, but the weather warms up significantly during the trek. Wear comfortable layers, and you will be prepared for the temperature changes.

Additionally, wear either hiking or tennis shoes for the trek. Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. Now you’re ready to hike Laguna 69!

The most important information that you should take away from this guide is to go at your own pace. It is not a competition, and everyone’s body reacts to the higher altitude differently. Take a break when you need to and listen to your body. Being prepared for hiking Laguna 69 is key to a fun and enjoyable trek!

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