Andrea Tello, our editor in Peru, has laid out the following suggested itinerary for a 2 week stay in Peru:

2 Weeks will allow you to explore many of the highlights of Southern Peru. Plan to spend a day touring cultural Lima, the modern capital of Peru. On day two, hop on a bus to the Southern Coast where nature lovers can explore the Paracas Reserve, archaeology buffs can revel at the baffling Nazca Lines, and beach bums can enjoy the Pacific breeze. You will need two full days in the area before returning back to Lima on day five for a flight to Cusco.



Upon arrival in Cusco, head straight to the Sacred Valley, where the altitude is a bit lower and acclimatizing will be less painful. Hire a guide and spend a few leisurely days enjoying the enchanted Sacred Valley and understanding the history of the area. Plan on spending 4 – 5 days exploring the Sacred Valley (with one day reserved for Machu Picchu, either by hiking the Inca Trail or an alternative trail, or simply relaxing at your hotel and making day trips to the local Inca Sites. Plan to spend day 10 in Colonial Cusco discovering the ancient Inca capital.



This leaves 4 days to visit one of the remaining highlights of Southern Peru. Those who are intrigued by the culture will want to visit Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable body of water, where communities inhabit the floating reed islands. Architecture enthusiasts will want to visit the colonial town of Arequipa, with its elegant buildings carved out of volcanic stone. A side trip from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons (deeper than the Grand Canyon), is advised for birders and outdoor-types. Nature-lovers should opt for an adventure into the Southern Amazon Jungle, either to Tambopata or the protected Manu Biosphere Reserve.