Peru in 5 or 6 days: The perfect itinerary!

Would you like to visit Peru in 5 or 6 days and discover the most iconic places? Then you’ve come to the right place!

I have created the ultimate 5 or 6 day itinerary for Peru to discover the must-see destinations, from Lima to Machu Picchu, passing through the Colca Canyon, Cuzco and the Sacred Valley.

In addition to a detailed day-by-day itinerary, you will find all my tips and practical information, accommodation recommendations for all budgets and answers to practical questions: how to get around, how to cope with the altitude and much more.

What are the best places to visit in Peru in 5-6 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

What to do in Peru in 5 or 6 days

Day 1: Lima (1 Day)

Welcome to Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru!

With just one day, you can experience Lima’s rich history, breathtaking ocean views, and world-famous cuisine.

Morning – Explore Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Start at the iconic Plaza Mayor, the heart of the historic district, surrounded by must-see landmarks like the Government Palace and Cathedral of Lima.

Next, visit the San Francisco Monastery, famous for its impressive architecture and underground catacombs.

Walk along Jirón de la Unión, a lively pedestrian street filled with shops and street performers, leading to the stunning Plaza San Martín.

Afternoon – Discover the modern and artistic neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco.

In Miraflores, start at Parque Kennedy, a lively hub with street artists, vendors, and its famous resident cats. Then, walk along Avenida Larco, a bustling avenue full of shops and restaurants, heading toward the coast.

Follow the scenic Malecón de Miraflores, a coastal path offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.

Make a stop at Parque del Amor, known for its colorful mosaics and the iconic “El Beso” statue. Continue to Parque Chino and end at Larcomar, a stunning cliffside shopping mall with oceanfront views.

Head over to Barranco, Lima’s bohemian district, famous for its artistic vibe, cobblestone streets, and colorful murals.

Visit the charming Bridge of Sighs, one of the most photographed spots in Barranco, and stop by the Catalina Recavarren Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Pacific.

From there, follow the picturesque Bajada de los Baños, a pathway leading to the beach. If you love street art, this is one of the best places to see it!

Evening – End the day with a drink in Barranco.

Barranco is known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of stylish bars and hidden gems.

Enjoy a classic pisco sour at El Juanito de Barranco or Bodega Piselli. If you prefer craft beer, check out BarBarian or Invictus Taproom.

Where to stay in Lima

For these two days, I recommend staying in Miraflores or Barranco, which are safe and well-located neighborhoods:

• Pariwana Hostel Lima: a very friendly youth hostel in the heart of Miraflores. Clean rooms, relaxed vibe, good Wi-Fi, with a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace. Dorm bed from only $13 USD and $50 USD for a private room!

• Casita Libertad Homestay: a small house located on a quiet and safe street in the Barranco neighborhood. Cozy atmosphere, very clean, with access to a fully equipped kitchen. Room from only $29 USD per night.

• Casa Andina: a 3-star hotel in Miraflores offering one of the best value-for-money stays in Lima. Modern hotel, recently renovated, with excellent service and an on-site restaurant. Buffet breakfast included, from $87 USD per night.

• Courtyard Lima Miraflores: a modern 4-star hotel perfectly located just steps from Kennedy Park. Comfortable and bright rooms, with a gym and a café-restaurant. From $165 USD per night.

Day 2: Arequipa (1 day)

Continue your 6-day Peru itinerary in Arequipa, a beautiful city surrounded by volcanoes, known for its unique charm and stunning white volcanic stone buildings.

Start your day at the Santa Catalina Monastery, one of my favorite places in Peru.

This monastery is like a city within a city, with narrow streets, peaceful squares, fountains, and red and blue walls. It spans an impressive 23,920 square yards!

Take 1.5 to 2 hours to explore it fully, wandering through its ancient kitchens, dormitories, and chapels.

Next, head to the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa’s historic center and considered the most beautiful square in Peru.

While at the Plaza de Armas, don’t miss the Cathedral of Arequipa, built from sillar, a unique white volcanic stone.

I highly recommend taking a guided tour that includes access to the bell tower. The climb may be steep, but the panoramic view from the top is absolutely worth it!

Just a few steps from the square, visit the Church of the Society of Jesus and its stunning cloisters. This church is a prime example of mestizo baroque architecture in Peru.

Inside, you’ll find tranquil, shaded cloisters—an oasis of calm in the middle of the city.

Before ending your day, make sure to visit the Museum of Andean Shrines, home to one of Peru’s most famous figures: the mummy Juanita.

Juanita was a young Inca girl sacrificed over 500 years ago at the top of the Ampato volcano.

She is incredibly well-preserved due to the freezing temperatures of the mountain, and every time I see her, it amazes me—she looks as if she’s merely asleep.

Where to stay in Arequipa

• Arequipay Hostel: Located a few blocks from the Main Square, this hostel offers very clean and bright dormitories. Perfect for budget travelers. Private rooms and shared dorms available. Basic breakfast served daily. From just $8 USD.

• Hotel Tierra Viva: Ideal for mid-range travelers. Just two blocks from the main square, it offers great value with comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, and buffet breakfast included. From $60 USD per night.

• Hotel Los Tambos: A great choice for those seeking superior comfort. Located just 50 meters from the main square. Stylish rooms and a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the city. À la carte breakfast with 5 menu options. From $71 USD per night.

• CIRQA – Relais & Châteaux: A stunning luxury hotel in the heart of Arequipa with a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace. Breakfast and dinner included with all rooms. From $475 USD per night.

Day 3: Colca Canyon (1 day)

Today, explore one of Peru’s most impressive natural wonders: the Colca Canyon!

Not only is it the 2nd deepest canyon in the world, but also one of the best places to see the majestic Andean condor fly.

To make the most of this day, it is essential to get up early, as it takes about 3h-4h to get there from Arequipa.

If you only have one day, I recommend that you forget about the bus and instead book a guided tour, with pick-up at your hotel, so you can make the most of it.

The trip will take you to Chivay for a hearty breakfast accompanied by a traditional dance, before enjoying the hot springs of Yanque.

You will visit the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint, the best vantage point to admire the flight of the Andean condor, and then taste some typical Peruvian dishes before stopping at the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserves to observe alpacas and vicuñas in the wild.

You can book the Colca Canyon day trip here:

After a full day of exploration, you will return to Arequipa.

From here, you have two options: take an overnight flight to Cuzco or spend the night in Arequipa and catch an early flight the next morning.

As the flight is only an hour long, both options are suitable, depending on your schedule and energy level.

Where to stay in Arequipa

• Arequipay Hostel: Located a few blocks from the Main Square, this hostel offers very clean and bright dormitories. Perfect for budget travelers. Private rooms and shared dorms available. Basic breakfast served daily. From just $8 USD.

• Hotel Tierra Viva: Ideal for mid-range travelers. Just two blocks from the main square, it offers great value with comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, and buffet breakfast included. From $60 USD per night.

• Hotel Los Tambos: A great choice for those seeking superior comfort. Located just 50 meters from the main square. Stylish rooms and a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the city. À la carte breakfast with 5 menu options. From $71 USD per night.

• CIRQA – Relais & Châteaux: A stunning luxury hotel in the heart of Arequipa with a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace. Breakfast and dinner included with all rooms. From $475 USD per night.

Day 4: Cusco (1 day)

Welcome to Cuzco, the ancient capital of the great Inca Empire and one of the most important cities to visit in Peru

Morning – Start with a visit to the Coricancha, once the most sacred temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to Inti, the sun god.

The temple was so important that its walls were covered with gold. When the Spaniards arrived, much of the temple was destroyed and the church of Santo Domingo was built on its foundations.

From here, head to the heart of the city, the Plaza de Armas. Surrounded by colonial arcades, cafes and restaurants, it is the lively center of Cuzco.

On one side is the Cuzco Cathedral, built over the ancient palace of the Inca Wiracocha. On the other is the Church of the Society of Jesus, built over the palace of the Inca Huayna Capac.

From the Plaza de Armas, walk through the Portal Belen and continue along Triunfo Street to Hatunrumiyoc Street, where you will find one of the most famous symbols of Cuzco: the 12-cornered stone.

This stone, carved with perfect precision, is part of an ancient Inca wall and is famous for its impeccable fit. The stones fit together so tightly that it is impossible to fit a sheet of paper through them.

Afternoon – Explore San Blas, Cuzco’s bohemian neighborhood, with its narrow streets and white houses with blue doors.

On your way to Plaza de San Blas, you’ll pass craft stores, art galleries and boutique cafes. Continue to L’Atelier Café-Boutique, which offers one of the best views of Cuzco, with its emblematic balcony decorated with colorful plants.

On your way back to the Plaza de Armas, take Siete Culebras Street.

This narrow pedestrian street is famous for its ancient Inca stone walls. This road will lead you to the Plazoleta de las Nazarenas, a small and quiet square surrounded by luxury hotels, boutiques and the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.

Where to Stay in Cusco

• Backpacker La Bo’M: One of the best hostels in Cusco. Founded by Sarah, a French expat, it includes a delicious crêperie next door. Perfectly located in the charming neighborhood of San Blas, it offers good Wi-Fi, a cozy vibe, and of course, amazing crêpes to start your day! Dorms from only $13 USD and private rooms from $33 USD.

• La Casona Real Cusco: For those looking for more comfort, this charming traditional-style guesthouse is located on a quiet street just steps from the Plaza de Armas. Impeccably clean, with hot water, great Wi-Fi, and a warm welcome. Breakfast included, all from just $76 USD per night!

• Hotel Tierra Viva Cusco San Blas: In the lovely San Blas neighborhood, this upscale hotel offers spacious rooms with very comfortable beds. Its modern décor with local touches and peaceful interior courtyard make for a relaxing stay. Buffet breakfast included. From $98 USD per night!

• Antigua Casona San Blas: A chic and intimate 4-star hotel in San Blas. It features very comfortable rooms, a warm atmosphere, and a tasteful blend of modern and traditional décor. Don’t miss their Piedra & Sal restaurant, one of Cusco’s best. Excellent breakfast included. From $250 USD per night.

• Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel: For a romantic stay in Cusco, this 5-star gem is housed in a spectacular colonial building across from Coricancha, with roots dating back to Inca times. Enjoy the indoor pool, gym, spa, bar, and restaurant. Delicious breakfast included. From $325 USD per night.

Day 5: Sacred Valley (1 day)

Of course, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-see on any 5-day Peru itinerary.

This fertile valley was a major agricultural, religious, and political center during the Inca Empire and remains one of the most fascinating places to visit in Peru.

If you only have one day in the Sacred Valley, here’s the best way to explore it:

Morning – Start your day in Pisac.

Explore its colorful market, the perfect place to find handmade textiles, pottery, and jewelry.

Next, visit the Pisac ruins, perched atop a hill with breathtaking views of the valley. This is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the region!

Here, you’ll see the impressive agricultural terraces built by the Incas, along with temples, ceremonial baths, and various structures that highlight its historical importance.

After Pisac, head to Chinchero, a small Andean village renowned for its textile traditions.

Visit local workshops where artisans demonstrate how they dye and weave traditional Andean textiles using natural techniques.

It’s fascinating to watch as vibrant colors are created from plants, insects, and minerals.

In the afternoon – Explore the Inca village of Ollantaytambo.

With its narrow streets, water channels and stone houses, you will feel as if you have stepped back in time.

The main attraction is the great fortress of Ollantaytambo, once an Inca military, religious and political center.

In addition to magnificent panoramic views over the valley, there are terraced crops and several structures such as the Temple of the Sun and the Bath of the ñusta, where the Inca’s wife bathed to purify herself.

Overnight – Instead of heading back to Cuzco, I recommend spending the night in Ollantaytambo.

Not only is it a quiet and very nice town to explore, but it is also a very convenient option for the next part of your trip: catching the train to Machu Picchu.

The station is right in the village, so it is easy to catch the morning train to Aguas Calientes.

Where to Stay in Ollantaytambo

• Las Portadas: This is the best budget option in Ollantaytambo. A typical local house with a lovely garden and mountain views, just 5 minutes from the main square and 15 minutes from the train station. Rooms from just $23 USD with breakfast included.

• Casa de la Chola: A beautiful room in a charming lodge located just outside of town, about 10 minutes from Ollantaytambo train station. Perfect for nature lovers. From $60 USD per night, with a breakfast that’s a true treat for food lovers.

• Apu Lodge: A lovely hotel with a garden and fantastic views of the mountains and Inca ruins. Very peaceful location, with spacious and comfortable rooms that can host up to 5 people. Friendly staff. Excellent breakfast included. From $93 USD per night!

• El Albergue Ollantaytambo: A countryside-style hotel located right at the Ollantaytambo train station, perfect for catching the early train to Machu Picchu. Comfortable rooms, a beautiful green garden, an organic farm, and a peaceful setting. Onsite you’ll also find an excellent restaurant, a coffee roastery, and a craft distillery. Breakfast included. From $275 USD per night!

Day 6: Machu Picchu (1 day)

After exploring the Sacred Valley, it’s finally time to visit the most iconic and unmissable site in Peru: Machu Picchu.

This day will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your 5–6 day Peru itinerary, as you explore the legendary Inca citadel—officially recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

From Ollantaytambo, you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo). The scenic ride takes around 1.5 hours and passes through lush jungle, dramatic valleys, and winding rivers—an experience in itself.

You can book your roundtrip train tickets to Aguas Calientes easily right here:

 

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, take the bus (25–30 min) that brings you directly to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

You can easily buy your round-trip bus ticket right here:

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for: it’s time to explore Machu Picchu, surrounded by spectacular green mountains!

Discover the agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana (ancient sundial), the Temple of the Three Windows, and more.

If you’re up for a challenge, you can also hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for incredible panoramic views over the site.

Make sure to buy your entrance tickets in advance – spots are limited and often sell out fast. Here are your options:

Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket (Classic Circuit)

Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Ticket (Book months in advance!)

Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket

After visiting Machu Picchu, head back to Aguas Calientes.

You’ll find several cafés and restaurants—just note that prices tend to be higher than elsewhere in Peru, since the town is so remote.

From Aguas Calientes station, take the train to Ollantaytambo, then continue by car or bus to Cuzco.

Finally, return to Lima for your departure flight and the end of this unforgettable journey.

When is the best time to visit Peru?

As this 5-6 day program in Peru includes Lima, Arequipa, Cuzco and Machu Picchu, you will cross the coast, the altiplano and the highlands, each with its particular climate.

In general, the dry season (May to October) is considered the best time to visit the country, especially if you plan a trip to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

During these months, you will enjoy clear skies and low rainfall, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

It is also peak tourist season, so it is essential that you book your tours, trains and entrance tickets to Machu Picchu in advance.

If you travel during the rainy season (November to April), expect frequent rain, especially in Cuzco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

The landscape is lush and green, but trails can get muddy and heavy rains may alter some of your plans.

A notable exception is Lima, where the weather is more stable, with often cloudy skies but very little rain throughout the year.

How to manage the altitude in Cuzco and Machu Picchu?

Altitude is something to take seriously in Peru, especially on a 5 or 6 day itinerary that includes Cuzco (11,150 ft) and Machu Picchu (7,970 ft). While Machu Picchu is lower, you’ll feel the altitude more in Cuzco.

The good news? This itinerary is designed to help you acclimate gradually, starting at sea level in Lima, then heading to Arequipa (7,660 ft), before continuing to Cuzco.

From experience, altitude affects everyone differently — but here are the tips that work best for me:

• Take it slow on your first day in Cuzco: rest, avoid big meals, and skip strenuous activities.
• Drink coca tea: a traditional local remedy that can really help.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.

At Colca Canyon (12,470 ft) the altitude is even higher, but since it’s a calm stop with minimal walking, it’s manageable. If symptoms persist, you can find soroche pills (for altitude sickness) at local pharmacies or consult a doctor.

What transportation should I use between the main destinations?

For a short and intense trip like this, you have two main transport options: domestic flights and long-distance buses.

Flights

To save time and energy, flights are the best choice. Here’s what to expect:

• Lima to Arequipa: about 1.5 hours (vs. 16+ hours by bus)
• Arequipa to Cuzco: about 1 hour (vs. 10+ hours by bus)
• Cuzco to Lima: about 1.5 hours (vs. 20+ hours by bus)

Flights are offered by LATAM, Sky Airline, and JetSmart. Book early for the best prices!

Buses

Buses are cheaper, but not recommended for a short 5-6 day trip. They take too long and will leave you exhausted.

• Lima to Arequipa: 16–18 hours
• Arequipa to Cuzco: 10–12 hours
• Cuzco to Lima: over 20 hours

Local transport

For shorter trips like Cuzco to Ollantaytambo, take a colectivo (shared minibus). They’re fast and budget-friendly.

But if you want to explore the Sacred Valley in one day, it’s much better to book a guided tour than rely on colectivos.

Train to Machu Picchu

To reach Machu Picchu, take a train from Ollantaytambo or Cuzco to Aguas Calientes. The ride takes 1.5 to 3.5 hours depending on where you start.

Main train companies: Peru Rail and Inca Rail.

Do I need vaccinations or health precautions for this itinerary?

Good news: for this 5-6 day Peru itinerary, there’s no need for yellow fever or malaria vaccines, as you’re not visiting the jungle.

Just make sure your routine vaccines are up to date:

• Hepatitis A
• Typhoid (especially if you’ll try street food)
• Tetanus (DTP)
• Rabies (optional, useful if you’ll be around animals)

Is 5 or 6 days enough to visit Peru?

Yes, but be prepared: it’s going to be intense!

This itinerary allows you to visit Lima, Arequipa, the Colca Canyon, Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, which is quite impressive for such a short trip.

However, you will need to be well organized, always prioritize the fastest means of transportation, book everything in advance (including flights, trains and tickets to Machu Picchu), and be prepared for early starts and busy days.

If you have more flexibility, I recommend you take a look at these other Peru itineraries, which allow you to explore more destinations at a slower pace:

• Itinerary: 7-8 Days in Peru – See the Best in One Week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Peru – The ideal itinerary for a short stay
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Peru
• Itinerary: 15 days in Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru + Bolivia – Best route to visit both countries

Book Your Flight at the Best Price

Planning a trip to Peru? To get the best deal on your flights, I recommend using this flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner.

It’s the easiest way to find the lowest prices for both international flights and domestic flights within Peru—ensuring you pay the best rate with no hassle!

Rent a Car in Peru

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Peru at your own pace and make the most of your trip!

Personally, I always use Booking.com Cars for a few key reasons:

• Easily compare prices from all major rental agencies in one place—finding the best deal has never been easier!
• Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can reserve with peace of mind.
• Better insurance coverage at a lower price than rental companies—saving you money with no extra effort.

Click the button below to find the best car rental deals in Peru:

Traveling to Peru? These articles will help you!

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• Itinerary: 7-8 days in Peru – See the maximum in one week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Peru – The ideal itinerary for a short stay in Peru
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Peru – The classic route
• Itinerary: 15 days in Peru – An itinerary that includes northern Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Peru + Bolivia – The best itinerary for visiting both countries
• Itinerary: 1 month in Peru – What to see and do in 30-31 days

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