Is two weeks enough for Peru?

Two weeks covers the highlights well — Lima, Cusco/Machu Picchu, plus one other region. You could easily spend a month, but two weeks gives you a solid taste without feeling rushed.

Should I book tours in advance or on arrival?

Book Machu Picchu permits and domestic flights in advance. Everything else can be booked 1-2 days ahead in major cities. Tour agencies line the streets in Cusco and Lima.

How bad is altitude sickness?

Varies by person. Cusco at 11,200ft affects most people initially. Arrive afternoon, take it easy first day, drink coca tea, stay hydrated. Consider Diamox if you're sensitive to altitude.

What's the best third region after Lima and Cusco?

Arequipa/Colca Canyon for dramatic landscapes, Iquitos for Amazon experience, or northern coast for archaeology and beaches. Choose based on your interests and season.

Is it safe to travel independently?

Yes, Peru is generally safe for independent travelers using common sense. Stick to main tourist routes, don't flash valuables, use authorized taxis. Tourist police are helpful in major destinations.

How to spend two weeks in Peru

Two weeks in Peru covers Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and one additional region. Fly into Lima, spend 2-3 days there, then head to Cusco for 4-5 days including Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Use remaining time for either Arequipa and Colca Canyon, the Amazon near Iquitos, or northern beaches around Trujillo.

Plan your route and book flights. Fly into Lima. Book domestic flights early — Lima to Cusco costs $80-120, Lima to Iquitos $100-150. Most routes connect through Lima. Book Machu Picchu permits 2-3 months ahead through the official government website. Choose your third region based on interests: Arequipa for landscapes, Iquitos for Amazon, Trujillo for archaeology.
Start in Lima (Days 1-3). Base yourself in Miraflores or Barranco. Day 1: recover from international flight, explore Miraflores clifftops. Day 2: Historic center including Plaza de Armas and catacombs, plus one major museum. Day 3: Food market tour in Surquillo, afternoon flight to next destination. Book restaurants ahead — Central and Maido need 1-2 month reservations.
Cusco and Sacred Valley (Days 4-8). Arrive in Cusco, take it easy the first day for altitude. Day 4: Light walking in San Blas, coca tea, early dinner. Day 5: Sacred Valley day trip to Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Day 6: Machu Picchu — catch 6am train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Day 7: Cusco city including Qorikancha and San Pedro market. Day 8: Sacsayhuamán and flight to third destination.
Choose your third region (Days 9-13). Arequipa route: 2 days in Arequipa city, 2-day Colca Canyon tour, 1 day return to Lima. Amazon route: Fly to Iquitos, 3-4 day jungle lodge stay, return to Lima. Northern route: Trujillo for Chan Chan ruins, Huacachina Oasis near Ica, or extend time in Cusco region for hiking.
Return to Lima (Day 14). Fly back to Lima for international departure. If afternoon flight, visit Barranco for shopping and final meal. For evening flights, stay near airport or use VIP lounge. Most international flights depart late evening.

Is two weeks enough for Peru?: Two weeks covers the highlights well — Lima, Cusco/Machu Picchu, plus one other region. You could easily spend a month, but two weeks gives you a solid taste without feeling rushed.
Should I book tours in advance or on arrival?: Book Machu Picchu permits and domestic flights in advance. Everything else can be booked 1-2 days ahead in major cities. Tour agencies line the streets in Cusco and Lima.
How bad is altitude sickness?: Varies by person. Cusco at 11,200ft affects most people initially. Arrive afternoon, take it easy first day, drink coca tea, stay hydrated. Consider Diamox if you're sensitive to altitude.
What's the best third region after Lima and Cusco?: Arequipa/Colca Canyon for dramatic landscapes, Iquitos for Amazon experience, or northern coast for archaeology and beaches. Choose based on your interests and season.
Is it safe to travel independently?: Yes, Peru is generally safe for independent travelers using common sense. Stick to main tourist routes, don't flash valuables, use authorized taxis. Tourist police are helpful in major destinations.