Is two weeks enough time for Peru?

Two weeks gives you time for the highlights plus either Amazon or coastal regions. You'll need to choose between seeing everything briefly or fewer places with more depth. Most people find two weeks satisfying if they don't try to cover the entire country.

Should I book tours in advance or on arrival?

Book Machu Picchu and Inca Trail in advance - these sell out. Amazon lodge stays should be booked ahead for better prices and availability. Day tours from Cusco and Lima can be booked 1-2 days ahead once you're there.

How bad is altitude sickness really?

About 25% of visitors to Cusco experience some symptoms - headache, nausea, fatigue. Most adjust within 2-3 days. Serious altitude sickness is rare but possible. Take it easy your first days, stay hydrated, and consider altitude medication if you're concerned.

Is it safe to travel independently in Peru?

Peru is generally safe for independent travelers using normal precautions. Stick to established tourist routes, don't flash valuables, use reputable transport companies. Solo female travelers should take extra care in Lima and avoid walking alone at night.

How to Plan Two Weeks in Peru

Two weeks in Peru works best split between Lima (2 days), Cusco and Sacred Valley (5-6 days), Machu Picchu (2 days), and either the Amazon (4-5 days) or northern coast including Huacachina and Arequipa (5-6 days). Book Machu Picchu permits 2-3 months ahead and plan for altitude acclimatization in Cusco.

Book Machu Picchu permits first. Reserve your Machu Picchu entrance tickets and Huayna Picchu climb (if wanted) 2-3 months in advance through the official site. Choose morning entry (6am or 8am) to avoid crowds. If hiking the Inca Trail, book 6 months ahead through a licensed operator.
Plan your route around flights. Fly into Lima, spend 1-2 days, then fly to Cusco (1 hour 20 minutes). Build in 2-3 days in Cusco/Sacred Valley before Machu Picchu for altitude adjustment. End with either Amazon (fly Cusco to Puerto Maldonado) or coast route (bus/fly Cusco to Arequipa, then north).
Structure your itinerary by region. Lima: 2 days for food scene and museums. Cusco region: 5-6 days total (2-3 days Cusco city, 1-2 days Sacred Valley, 1-2 days Machu Picchu area). Choose either Amazon: 4-5 days Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos, OR Coast/South: 5-6 days covering Arequipa, Colca Canyon, and Huacachina Oasis.
Book internal transport early. Domestic flights fill up and get expensive. Book Lima-Cusco and any Amazon flights when you book Machu Picchu. For overland travel, Cruz del Sur and Oltursa are reliable bus companies. The train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) should be booked with your Machu Picchu permits.
Plan for altitude adjustment. Cusco sits at 11,200 feet. Arrive 2-3 days before Machu Picchu. Drink coca tea, avoid alcohol first day, eat light meals. Consider spending first night in Sacred Valley (lower elevation) before going up to Cusco city.
Choose your Amazon experience. Puerto Maldonado: easier access, 3-4 day lodge stays, good for wildlife viewing. Iquitos: more remote, longer river journeys, better for authentic jungle experience. Both require yellow fever vaccination. Book lodge stays in advance.

Is two weeks enough time for Peru?: Two weeks gives you time for the highlights plus either Amazon or coastal regions. You'll need to choose between seeing everything briefly or fewer places with more depth. Most people find two weeks satisfying if they don't try to cover the entire country.
Should I book tours in advance or on arrival?: Book Machu Picchu and Inca Trail in advance - these sell out. Amazon lodge stays should be booked ahead for better prices and availability. Day tours from Cusco and Lima can be booked 1-2 days ahead once you're there.
How bad is altitude sickness really?: About 25% of visitors to Cusco experience some symptoms - headache, nausea, fatigue. Most adjust within 2-3 days. Serious altitude sickness is rare but possible. Take it easy your first days, stay hydrated, and consider altitude medication if you're concerned.
Is it safe to travel independently in Peru?: Peru is generally safe for independent travelers using normal precautions. Stick to established tourist routes, don't flash valuables, use reputable transport companies. Solo female travelers should take extra care in Lima and avoid walking alone at night.