12-Day Sacred Valley, Peru Itinerary

Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Cusco

Peru completely exceeded my expectations. While Machu Picchu is undoubtedly the country's most famous attraction, I quickly discovered that the journey through the Sacred Valley was just as unforgettable. From wandering centuries-old Inca ruins and exploring picturesque mountain villages to watching salt harvested the same way it has been for generations, every day offered something new. This 12-day Peru itinerary follows the exact route I took through Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco, including the itinerary that helped me adjust to Peru's high altitude while making the most of every day.

👉 Planning your trip? Get my Complete Guide to Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Itinerary at a Glance

📅 Duration: 12 Days

📍 Destinations: Lima • Sacred Valley • Machu Picchu • Cusco🚗 Transportation: Flights, train, private driver

🥾 Activity Level: Moderate

⛰️ Highest Elevation: Cusco (11,150 ft / 3,400 m)

⭐ Best For: First-time visitors to Peru who don’t know where to start

🗺️ Interactive Peru Itinerary Map

Follow the exact route I took through Peru—from Lima to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Use this interactive map to visualize the itinerary, estimate travel distances, and plan your own unforgettable adventure.

Table of Contents

• Day 1 – Arrive in Lima

• Day 2 – Explore Lima's Historic Center & Miraflores

• Day 3 – Travel to Cusco & Stay in the Sacred Valley (Urubamba)

• Day 4 – Explore the Sacred Valley: Ollantaytambo & Urubamba

• Day 5 – Travel to Aguas Calientes & Explore Machu Picchu

• Day 6 – Return to Machu Pichu or Explore Aguas Calientes

• Day 7 – Explore Aguas Calientes then Travel to Cusco

• Day 8 – Explore Cusco and Visit Saqsaywaman

• Day 9 – Visit Moray & the Maras Salt Mines

• Day 10 – Explore Pisac Ruins

• Day 11 – Explore More of Cusco & Fly to Lima

• Day 12 – Depart Peru

Sometimes traveling to foreign countries is overwhelming. There is so much research and planning involved.  I realize for many of you, this may be an obstacle that prevents you from ever pulling the trigger on such a trip. 

Therefore, I am sharing below an overview of my 12-day itinerary to Peru to help you in your planning in hopes it motivates you to get out there and go. You will not regret it. I promise!

✨ Note About this Itinerary: Instead of staying in Cusco immediately, this itinerary begins in the Sacred Valley, which sits at a lower elevation and gives your body time to adjust to the altitude before reaching Cusco. It also minimizes backtracking and lets you experience Peru's highlights in a logical order.

👉 Before your visit, be sure to also get my Complete Guide to Peru’s Sacred Valley.

✈️ Fly from your home country to Lima, Peru.

Depending on your arrival time, settle into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the neighborhood or sampling your first Peruvian meal. If you’re coming from the U.S. or Europe, you willl undoubtedly be tired so get to bed early and get some rest.

Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor)

Begin your day at Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor), the historic heart of Lima. Surrounded by the Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, Archbishop's Palace, City Hall, Casa del Oidor, and the beautiful Central Fountain, it's the perfect place to soak in the city's history and architecture. Don’t miss touring the cathedral, enjoying lunch at a nearby outdoor café, or just spending a few minutes relaxing on a park bench while watching locals and visitors pass through the square.

Miraflores

Later, head to Miraflores to stroll along the scenic Malecón, browse the shops and cafés, or simply take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean before dinner.

Huaca Pucllana

End the day with dinner at Huaca Pucllana, one of Lima's most unique restaurants, overlooking the illuminated ruins of the 1,500-year-old Huaca Pucllana archaeological site. The combination of exceptional Peruvian cuisine and an unforgettable setting makes it one of the city's most memorable dining experiences.

This ended up being one of my favorite meals in Peru because of just how unique the location was.

✨ Pro Tip: Be sure to make a reservation in advance.

🛩️ Travel Time: Lima → Cusco: 1 hour 20 minutes.

Flight to Cusco

Catch a morning flight from Lima to Cusco. If possible, request a window seat—the flight is one of the most breathtaking I've ever experienced, with incredible views of the snow-covered Andes Mountains as you approach Cusco. It truly felt like a scene from a movie and remains one of my favorite travel memories.

Travel to Urubamba in the Sacred Valley

Upon landing, continue by car to Urubamba in the Sacred Valley, about an hour from Cusco.

🚗 Travel Time: Cusco → Urubamba: Approx. 1 hour, 15 minutes.

Getting to Urubamba

I would recommend one of two options for getting to Uruamba.

⭐ Option 1: Arrange a Transfer Through Your Hotel.

This is by far the easiest option. Many hotels in Urubamba can arrange an airport pickup from Cusco, and your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals area with a sign. It's stress-free after a flight, especially if it's your first time in Peru which is what I did.

⭐ Option 2: Book a Private Transfer in Advance

You can also reserve a private transfer online through companies like:

• Viator

• GetYourGuide

• Welcome Pickups

These services let you prepay, provide English-speaking customer support, and monitor your flight in case of delays.

✨ Pro Tip: Arrange for your airport driver to take you to Urubamba, then hire the same driver for a full day of sightseeing in the Sacred Valley. They'll already know your itinerary, and it's often more convenient than booking multiple transfers.

Because Urubamba sits at a lower elevation than Cusco, I recommend spending your first few days here to help your body acclimate to the altitude while enjoying the region's stunning mountain scenery. After checking into your hotel, spend the rest of the day relaxing and soaking in the peaceful surroundings before beginning your Sacred Valley adventures.

Explore Urubamba

Start your morning strolling through the charming streets of Urubamba, the heart of Peru's Sacred Valley. Browse local artisan shops, admire the historic Iglesia de Urubamba, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere before the day gets busy.

Next, stop by El Mercado, the town's bustling local market, where you'll find fresh fruit, baked goods, cheeses, and other local specialties. Pick up a few items to enjoy as a picnic lunch later in the day.

Explore Ollantaytambo

🚗 Travel Time: Urubamba → Ollantaytambo: 25–30 minutes.

From Urubamba, visit Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru. Wander the cobblestone streets before climbing the impressive Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, one of the most important Inca fortresses in the Sacred Valley. Once you reach the top, reward yourself with a picnic lunch while taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding Andes Mountains.

On your drive between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, keep an eye on the cliffs above for the famous Skylodge Adventure Suites. These transparent glass pods cling to the mountainside hundreds of feet above the valley floor, offering one of Peru's most unforgettable overnight experiences. Adventurous travelers can reach them by climbing a via ferrata or hiking a challenging trail before spending the night suspended high above the Sacred Valley.

Take the Train from Urubamba to Aguas Calientes

🚆 Travel Time: PeruRail (Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes): Approx. 1 hour, 40 minutes.

Board the PeruRail train from Urubamba to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The scenic journey through the Sacred Valley is an experience in itself, winding alongside the Urubamba River and through dramatic mountain landscapes.

✨ Pro Tip: Take PeruRail’s Vistadome train which offers floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows designed so that you can look up out at the Sacred Valley landscape all around you on your journey.

Check in at Hotel

After arriving, check into your hotel before heading up to Machu Picchu. Even if you arrive too early to check in to your actual room, the hotel can store your luggage for you while you explore the area.

Machu Picchu

✨Important Tips for Visiting Machu Picchu:

• 🎟️ Buy entrance tickets well in advance.

• 🚆 Reserve PeruRail tickets early.

• 🚌 Purchase bus tickets ahead of time when possible.

• ⛰️ Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require separate permits.

• 🪪 Bring your passport! It must match the name on your ticket.

Getting up to Machu Picchu

Most visitors choose to take the 20-minute shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Bus tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office in Aguas Calientes (Av. Hermanos Ayar S/N, near Puente Ruinas). Be sure to verify current hours and purchase tickets in advance whenever possible, especially during the busy season.

🚌 Travel Time: Shuttle Bus to Machu Picchu: 25–30 minutes.

If you're looking for more of a challenge, you can also hike between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. The trail is steep, climbing approximately 1,280 feet via hundreds of stone steps, and is best suited for travelers in good physical condition. We chose to hike back down after our visit, finishing the final stretch with headlamps as darkness fell. It was exhausting but an unforgettable experience.

⚠️ Be prepared: The ride up to Machu Picchu is an adventure in itself with 14 sharp zigzag switchbacks up the mountainside. If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication like Dramamin beforehand and sit near the front of the bus.

✨ Pro Tip: Purchase your Machu Picchu entrance tickets months in advance. These permits are extremely limited and frequently sell out during the busiest travel months.

Exploring & Hiking Machu Picchu

Spend the afternoon exploring the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu. Wander through the ancient stone terraces, temples, and plazas while keeping an eye out for the resident llamas that freely roam the site.

Optional Hikes Inside Machu Picchu

🥾 Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

For spectacular views, hike to Inti Punku, the original entrance used by travelers arriving on the Inca Trail. This moderately challenging hike takes about 1½–2 hours round trip and gains approximately 950 feet in elevation.

⛰️ Huayna Picchu

If you've secured one of the limited-entry permits, climbing Huayna Picchu offers some of the most iconic views overlooking Machu Picchu. The hike ranges from 1½–4 hours, depending on your chosen route, and is considered moderate to challenging. Entry is limited each day and often sells out months in advance, so reserve your ticket as early as possible.

Evening in Aguas Calientes

Take an evening stroll around the town of Aguas Calientes where you will find lively bars, restaurants and live entertainment.  

✨ Pro Tip: After a long day of hiking—especially if you walked between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu—treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the local hot springs. It's the perfect way to soothe tired muscles before continuing your Peru adventure.

Spend the Morning Exploring Machu Picchu

Spend the morning at Machu Picchu. This different time of day will very likely provide you with a completely different experience and often is foggy giving Machu Picchu its iconic mystical appearance.

Explore Aguas Calientes

After an early morning at Machu Picchu, spend the rest of the day exploring the charming town of Aguas Calientes. Browse the artisan markets, relax at a local café, or enjoy lunch along the river before wandering the pedestrian-friendly streets.

✨ Suggested Things to do in Aguas Calientes:

• Stroll through town including the main square and see the Statue of Pachacutec.

• Shop at local artisan shops and the central Mercado Artesanal.  I never regret buying souvenirs from the locals in places like this to take back home as gifts for loved ones.

• Explore Los Jardines de Mandor, the gardens northwest of town along the river full of orchids and birds.

• Explore the Butterfly House conservation project. They even offer guided tours.

End the evening with dinner at one of the town's many restaurants, where you'll often find live music and a lively atmosphere before continuing your adventure back to Cusco the next day.

Spend a Leisurely Morning in Aguas Calientes

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Aguas Calientes before catching your train back through the breathtaking Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo.

If you missed anything the previous day, this is a great opportunity to browse the artisan market, enjoy breakfast or coffee at a local café, or simply take in the peaceful mountain setting by the river one last time.

Catch the Train to Ollantaytambo

🚗 Travel Time: Ollantaytambo → Urubamba : 25–30 minutes.

To get to Cusco, you will first need to take the train back to Ollantaytambo. This offers another chance to admire the spectacular scenery, so grab a window seat if you can. You'll pass towering mountains, rushing rivers, and picturesque villages along the way.

Travel to Cusco

🚗 Travel Time: Ollantaytambo → Cusco: About 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on traffic).

From Ollantaytambo, continue by taxi or private transfer to Cusco, where you'll spend the next few days exploring the former capital of the Inca Empire. After checking into your hotel, spend the evening wandering the cobblestone streets, enjoying dinner at a local restaurant, or simply relaxing.

✨ Pro Tip: If you're traveling with luggage, many hotels in Cusco will happily store your bags if you arrive before check-in so you can explore the city.

Explore Cusco

Spend time exploring and discovering Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and one of Peru's most fascinating cities. I highly recommend starting with a guided walking tour, which provides great insight into the city's rich history while helping you get oriented.

Plaza de Armas

Begin at Plaza de Armas, Cusco's beautiful main square, built on the site of one of the Incas' most important ceremonial gathering places. Today, the plaza is filled with lively cafés, street performers, musicians, and local artists, making it a wonderful place to soak up the city's atmosphere.

Historic Center

From there, wander through Cusco's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its narrow cobblestone streets, impressive colonial architecture, and remarkably preserved Inca stonework.

Qorikancha (Koricancha)

Don't miss Qorikancha (Koricancha), once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Known as the Temple of the Sun, its walls were once covered in sheets of gold before the arrival of the Spanish.

San Blas Neighborhood

Next, make your way to the colorful San Blas neighborhood, one of my favorite parts of Cusco. This charming hillside district is filled with artisan workshops, boutique shops, cozy cafés, and picturesque streets that are perfect for wandering.

San Pedro Market

Before lunch, stop by San Pedro Market, where you'll find fresh produce, spices, local cheeses, handmade textiles, souvenirs, and plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Peruvian foods.

Visit Saqsaywaman (“Sexy Woman”)

Travel Time:

🚗 Cusco → Saqsaywaman: 10–15 minutes.

🚶 Cusco → Saqsaywaman: 30–45 minutes on foot (uphill).

Finish your day at Saqsaywaman (nicknamed “Sexy Woman” by foreigners), an extraordinary 15th-century Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. Famous for its enormous precisely fitted stone walls—some weighing more than 100 tons. This is one of Peru's most impressive archaeological sites and offers spectacular panoramic views of the city.

✨ Pro Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and take your time. Cusco sits at over 11,000 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level, so even short walks uphill can feel surprisingly strenuous until you've fully acclimated.

Hire a private driver (or join a guided tour) to explore two of the Sacred Valley's most fascinating archaeological sites: Moray and the Salineras de Maras (Maras Salt Mines).

Visit Moray

🚗 Travel Time: Cusco → Moray: About 1 hour 15 minutes.

Begin you day at Moray, an extraordinary Inca archaeological complex featuring massive circular terraces carved into the earth. Historians believe the Incas used these ingenious terraces as an agricultural laboratory, creating different microclimates to experiment with crops from a variety of elevations and growing conditions.

Salinas de Maras

🚗 Travel Time: Moray → Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras): About 20 minutes.

After Moray, continue to the Salineras de Maras, where more than 3,000 terraced salt ponds cascade down the mountainside. Families have harvested salt here for centuries using natural spring water, and the brilliant white pools set against the surrounding mountains create one of the most unique and photogenic landscapes in Peru.

The drive between Moray and the salt mines is part of the experience itself, passing through picturesque villages, rolling farmland, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andes Mountains. Don't be surprised if you find yourself asking your driver to pull over for photos more than once! I know I did.

✨ Pro Tip: Bring cash so you can purchase locally harvested Maras pink salt. It makes a fun souvenir while helping to support the locals who have mined these salt ponds for generations.

Explore the Pisac Ruins

🚗 Travel Time: Cusco → Pisac: About 45 minutes.

Hire a private driver and spend the day exploring Pisac, home to one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Perched high on a mountainside, the sprawling Inca complex features agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, plazas, and the largest known pre-Hispanic cemetery in the Americas, with thousands of tombs carved into the surrounding cliffs.

Enjoy the Pisac Artisan Market

After exploring the ruins, browse its famous artisan market where local vendors selling handcrafted textiles, jewelry, pottery, artwork, and other traditional Peruvian souvenirs. If your visit falls on a Sunday, you'll experience the market at its liveliest,

✨ Pro Tip: Visit the ruins early in the morning for cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and some of the best views overlooking the Sacred Valley.

Enjoy Your Last Morning in Cusco

Spend your final morning exploring Cusco at a slow pace. Wander the colorful streets, browse the artisan shops in San Blas, or relax in Plaza de Armas with a cup of Peruvian coffee while taking in the city's vibrant atmosphere one last time. Visit anything you may have missed the day before that you wanted to see or revisit your favorite neighborhood. Be sure to pick up a few last-minute souvenirs before your flight back to Lima.

Return to Lima

🛩️ Travel Time: Cusco → Lima: 1 hour 20 minutes.

Later in the day, catch your flight back to Lima and check into your hotel for your final night in Peru.

✨ Pro Tip: Allow plenty of time to get to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ). Traffic in Cusco can be unpredictable, especially in the afternoons.

Depending on your flight time, enjoy one last Peruvian breakfast or a leisurely stroll before heading to ✈️ Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima for your flight home.

Peru has become one of my favorite countries that I've ever visited. While Machu Picchu deserves its reputation as being a wonder of the world, it was the people, mountain villages, colorful markets, and unforgettable Sacred Valley that truly stole my heart.

I hope this itinerary helps you experience Peru the same way I did.

👉 Planning your trip? Don't miss my Complete Guide to Peru's Sacred Valley before you go!