Planning a 2-Week Peru Trip: Balancing the Andes and the Amazon

To cover both regions in 14 days, prioritize a flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado to avoid wasting 24 hours on buses. Spend 5 days in the Cusco/Sacred Valley area, 4 days in the Amazon basin, and use the remaining time for transit and acclimatization.

  1. Acclimatize immediately. Fly into Cusco but take a taxi directly to the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Pisac). The elevation is lower than Cusco city, which significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness for your first 2 nights.
  2. Book domestic flights in advance. Use LATAM or SKY Airline for the Cusco to Puerto Maldonado route. Do not attempt to travel between the Andes and the Amazon by land; the road trip takes upwards of 12-15 hours on winding mountain passes.
  3. Select your Amazon lodge. Choose a lodge at least 2-3 hours upriver from Puerto Maldonado. The closer you are to the city, the less wildlife you will see. Look for packages that include all meals, guides, and river transfers.
  4. Secure Machu Picchu permits early. Buy your circuit tickets at least 3 months in advance via the official government website. If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, these sell out faster than general entry.
Can I do the Amazon and Andes in one trip without flying?
No. The infrastructure between the Andes and the Amazon involves treacherous mountain roads that are prone to landslides and are not safe for casual travelers.
Do I need shots for the Amazon?
Yellow fever vaccination is highly recommended if you are visiting jungle regions. Consult a travel clinic 6 weeks before departure.