Essential Peru – 9 to 12 days
Your first big trip to Peru
Essential Peru – 9 to 12 days
A first big trip to Peru, without rushing, without stress.
With this "Essential" itinerary, you will discover the must-see places – Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu – at a gentle pace, in carefully chosen hotels and with logistics managed from A to Z from Switzerland.
Each trip is fully personalized: this program is a base that we adapt to your time, budget and desires.
Who is this trip for?
This route is particularly suitable if you:
come to Peru for the first time
I want to see Machu Picchu without turning my trip into a marathon
trips as a couple, with friends or family with teenagers
appreciate the comfort of carefully selected accommodations
I desire a balanced mix of culture, nature, and free time.
If you have a little more time (12 days), we can add an extra night in the Sacred Valley or in Cusco to slow the pace even more.
Highlights of the trip
Lima at a leisurely pace – first evening on the Pacific coast, Peruvian cuisine and walks in the colonial districts.
Cusco, capital of the Andes – cobbled streets, small squares, colorful markets and Inca ruins.
Sacred Valley of the Incas – traditional villages, agricultural terraces, artisans and postcard-perfect landscapes.
Day at Machu Picchu – arrival by panoramic train, ascent to the site with your private guide and free time to simply soak up the place.
Free time – time to stroll, shop, try out a spa or a favorite cafe, without a set schedule from morning to night.
Sample itinerary – 10 days / 9 nights
Day 1 – Arrival in Lima
Airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel in a pleasant area. Check-in, a break, then your first stroll along the Pacific Ocean if you have the energy.Day 2 – Lima, first taste of Peru
Explore the historic center with a French-speaking guide: colonial squares, wooden balconies, the cathedral, and local atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit a neighborhood by the ocean or enjoy free time. Optional: a gourmet dinner to immerse yourself in Peruvian cuisine.Day 3 – Flight to Cusco
Morning flight from Lima to Cusco. Welcome and transfer to your hotel. A very gentle day to acclimatize to the altitude: short walk, coca tea, rest. In the late afternoon, guided walk through the historic center.Day 4 – Cusco and the surrounding area
Visit the main Inca sites around Cusco (for example Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Tambomachay) and the city's most beautiful churches. Free evening in the streets of Cusco.Day 5 – Sacred Valley of the Incas
Departure for the Sacred Valley: markets, villages and agricultural terraces (e.g. Pisac or Chinchero). Lunch on site, then check-in at a quiet hotel in the valley.Day 6 – From the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes
Visit another iconic site in the valley (e.g., Ollantaytambo). In the afternoon, take the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the village at the foot of Machu Picchu. Overnight stay to be close to the site the following day.Day 7 – Machu Picchu
Ascend to the site early in the morning. Enjoy a private guided tour of Machu Picchu, followed by free time to admire the panoramic views. In the afternoon, return by train and then transfer to Cusco or the Sacred Valley, depending on your preferred pace.Day 8 – Free day in Cusco
A day to do whatever you like: market, cafes, cooking classes, Andean massage or simply watch life go by from a small square.Day 9 – Return to Lima
Flight Cusco – Lima. Last evening in Peru: sunset over the Pacific or last dinner in your favorite restaurant.Day 10 – Return flight
Transfer to the airport and international flight. End of your "Essential Peru"... and the start of your next travel plans.
Practical information
Ideal time
From April to October for the Cusco – Machu Picchu region (dryer season).
The rest of the year is possible, with more weather variations and fewer people.
Level / pace
Easy walking, some stairs at the Inca sites.
Moderate pace, designed to manage altitude and travel fatigue effectively.
Accommodation
Charming hotels or boutique hotels, clean and well located.
Possibility of upgrading (4-5★) depending on your budget and style.
What's included in your trip
Included:
Custom-designed trip tailored to your preferences
Accommodation with breakfast
Private airport/hotel transfers
Main excursions with a French or English-speaking guide (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu)
Train tickets to Machu Picchu according to the chosen category
Domestic flights in Peru (e.g., Lima – Cusco – Lima), organized with our local partner
Entrance fees to the sites visited according to the program
On-site assistance throughout your stay
Ready to create your own "Essential Peru"?
This program is a starting point. Together, we will adjust: number of days, comfort level, budget, special requests (wellness day, craft workshop, culinary experiences…).
Click below, tell me what you would like to experience, and I will prepare a tailor-made proposal for you.
Not included:
Travel/Cancellation Insurance
Meals not mentioned, drinks and personal expenses
Tips and miscellaneous personal expenses
International flights – operated by Qhanati:
Return flights to Peru are not included in the price shown.
But Qhanati will take care of booking everything for you.
You only need one contact for your trip: Qhanati.