Peru Itinerary: A Detailed 15-Day Adventure – Review & Guide

So, you’re thinking of seeing Peru, very? That’s totally awesome! I mean, planning a trip to Peru for, say, 15 days, well, that’s like deciding to paint a huge canvas – where do you even start, actually? The country’s packed with so many amazing places to explore, is that a bit overwhelming, I get that. This review, then, of a 15-day Peruvian adventure hits all the high notes from the well-known wonders to some pretty neat lesser-known spots.

Lima: Where the Adventure Starts

Your big Peru trip is more or less kicking off in Lima, a place with a certain energy about it. Right away, you’ll feel this blend of old and new that’s, like, totally Peruvian. Miraflores is usually where people go, and that’s probably you, with its stunning views of the ocean – it’s definitely worth a wander, maybe at sunset? Is that you flying above the city? Try paragliding or taking a relaxing walk along the Malecon, which stretches over 6 miles. History fans, actually, will probably wanna check out the city center (a UNESCO site, too) where, well, you’re basically bumping into colonial architecture around every corner.

You will eat great cuisine and may love these:
Ceviche is that national dish that’s a very must-try; it consists of fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, spiced with ají (chili peppers).
Lomo Saltado, that’s your classic stir-fry that features marinated strips of sirloin, onions, tomatoes, french fries, and other ingredients, very!
Causa Rellena is this layered mashed potato dish is often filled with tuna, chicken, or avocado.
Is that your first day with history and cuisine? Make sure to schedule in time to take it easy as you are easing into Peru time.

Hotel Recommendation: You may want to check out places, maybe, near Miraflores to capture the essence of Lima.

Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas

Now, Machu Picchu, like, that’s a name everyone recognizes. And seeing it, is that feeling real, I think so? There are two main ways to reach it. There is the train through the Sacred Valley, and that itself offers glimpses into communities and gorgeous terrain. The views on the train might give you something new to capture along the Urubamba River Valley.
The other approach to reach this mysterious city is to make an active multi-day Inca Trail hike for some and those who hike are generally rewarded with the experience and see more landscape details. If you wish to hike be ready for various terrain conditions!

Is that it? Well, upon arrival, I mean, prepare to be wowed by what humanity achieved way back when – those stones, how they fit so perfectly together, very cool. Hiring a guide for the spot might offer a deeper, better, more well-rounded and informed adventure as you hear about Incan innovations and culture. To explore Machu Picchu effectively, consider the time of year you are going and maybe book early. Tickets for tours tend to book far in advance. Plus, think about spending a night in Aguas Calientes which is this nearby town.

Iquitos: Gateway to the Amazon

Let’s switch things up, so heading to Iquitos is kinda like stepping into a completely different part of Peru. This city, only, only accessible by air or water, happens to be the entry point to the Peruvian Amazon – a total contrast from mountains and historical sites. The air here is heavy, wet and dense. The biodiversity is like, through the roof and so green!

I mean, once you’re in Iquitos, you can easily get on a riverboat, which I recommend to get a taste for Amazonian life. Some spots people love going to include Pacaya Samiria National Reserve (very large and brimming with wildlife), and seeing local indigenous groups and you may even learn of traditional practices that blend seamlessly with the rainforest, which could be pretty fascinating to find! During tours, it’s somewhat very common to encounter caimans, monkeys and anaconda!

Puno: Life on Lake Titicaca

High up in the Andes is Puno, resting next to Lake Titicaca – now, that’s some views for a high altitude! It’s not simply a body of water and Lake Titicaca is actually regarded to be South America’s largest lake. So you’re gonna feel the altitude as you spend time in this region. From Puno, the famous islands are the man-made Uros Floating Islands which you can reach by boat, also the Taquile and Amantani islands where local Quechua communities display heritage beautifully!

When spending time here and maybe spending a night on one of the islands (is that what you prefer to do), I think you’ll learn what living simply might be all about in Peru!

I suggest checking out the local festivals if, for instance, you get the opportunity. Seeing dance and traditional dress helps someone to connect with the culture.

Arequipa: The White City

Arequipa, is that usually someone’s last stop. So the “White City,” set at the foot of El Misti volcano is an architecture landmark constructed from white volcanic sillar rock!

For those wishing to hike, you may go to Colca Canyon. It is a natural habitat to massive Andean condors!

In addition to seeing unique topography of this section of the Andes, Arequipa hosts very exciting festivals. It really ties tradition and history with Peru of today!