An itinerary from a member of iBestTravel‘s A-List, a collection of the top travel advisors in the world.
Jordan Harvey is a member of iBestTravel’s A-List, a collection of the top travel advisors in the world, and can help plan your perfect getaway. He is the co-founder of Knowmad Adventures, which, after being founded in Patagonia, operates exclusively in South America and specializes in high-quality, custom adventures. Below is an example of the type of itineraries he creates.
Day 1: Lima
Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport by a Knowmad Adventures representative and taken to your accommodations. Explore Peru’s diverse and delectable cuisine and visit some of the city’s many sights and museums.
Stay: Costa del Sol Ramada Airport Hotel
Day 2: Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley
After your short morning flight to the former Incan capital of Cusco where Andean cultures come alive (don’t be surprised when the language doesn’t sound like Spanish — it is most likely the native Andean tongue Quechua), you’ll be met at the airport and taken for lunch. Depart for the Incan sights outside of Cusco, visiting significant locations such as:
- Sacsayhuaman fortress with its megalithic stone terraces
- Kenko, known for its carved stone surfaces and subterranean altars
- Puka Pukara fortress that once protected the royal capital
- Tambomachay, the sacred water temple
Continue through the mountains, enjoying breathtaking views as snow-capped Andean peaks descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Check in to your accommodations and take the afternoon to unwind, explore Urubamba, and acclimatize.
Stay: Sol y Luna
Day 3: Sacred Valley
Visit the isolated Amaru indigenous community in the Andes. Gather plants used as natural dyes and witness the vibrant textiles crafted by the Amaru people. You may choose to have lunch with community leaders or picnic amongst the Pisac ruins, followed by a hike down the mountainside to the region’s bustling market to bargain for local wares.
Stay: Sol y Luna
Day 4: Sacred Valley
Mountain bike through colonial villages and descend through the Andes to an ancient Incan laboratory, alongside pre-Columbian terraced saltpans. This experience is suitable for both experienced and beginner riders.
Stay: Sol y Luna
Day 5: Machu Picchu
Experience a day hike along the Inca trail through the enchanting Andean cloud forest leading you to the Sun Gate and the mystical lost city of Machu Picchu.
Stay: Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Day 6: Machu Picchu
Witness the magnificent sunrise over Machu Picchu and embark on the morning ascent of Huayna Picchu mountain. Enjoy a complete guided tour of the site, allowing for some exploration time on your own as well.
Stay: Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Day 7: Machu Picchu – Cusco
After breakfast, take the train and enjoy roaming through the town of Ollantaytambo, absorbing the view of ancient ruins towering above. Amidst the Sacred Valley, stop for lunch at an authentic colonial-era hacienda before proceeding to Cusco, arriving in the early evening. For those interested, you can enjoy a couple of hours riding the famed Peruvian Paso horses through the hacienda, the charming nearby town, and along the valley.
Stay: La Casona
Day 8: Cusco
Enjoy a day of leisure exploring at your own pace or accompanied by your guide in one of South America’s most dynamic cities. Visit architectural marvels such as Korikancha — the temple of the sun, shop at vibrant Andean markets, indulge in incredible Peruvian cuisine, and admire the colonial cathedrals around the Plaza Central. Alternatively, opt for excursions such as guided culinary explorations and cooking lessons, or embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure on the thrilling yet safe stretches of the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley.
Stay: La Casona
Day 9: Return Home
Fly to Lima and conclude your unforgettable journey through Peru.
