Two weeks in Peru: Group Trip through the fascinating land of Incas

These two weeks in Peru on our first group trip in May served as the perfect start to many more group trip adventures ahead. For 14 days, we explored Peru in a group of 11 people from our Instagram community, led by our amazing guides Lisa and Diogo. From the lively capital Lima to a desert camp surrounded by towering dunes, and from the legendary Machu Picchu to Lake Titicaca, each of the 14 days was an adventure in itself. The journey was filled with delicious Peruvian food, lots of laughter, deep conversations, and even a few tears – especially on our last night together. In just two weeks, 12 strangers from around the world became friends. Friends who dared to embark on this journey and created memories that will last forever.

For transparency: This group trip about two weeks in Peru was a collaboration with Ataw Travels, a travel agency specializing in small-group adventure tours across Latin and South America. If you decide to join one of their upcoming trips, please let Ataw Travels know that you were referred by us. This supports us with a small commission, while the price remains unchanged for you. The same transparency applies to our affiliate links, marked with an *. These links direct you to hotels, activities, or products that we personally recommend.

Two weeks in Peru

In today’s blog post about two weeks in Peru, we’ll give you an insight into what your two-week Peru itinerary could look like, including the route, activities, and highlights. Whether you’re considering joining the next Peru group trip or planning your own individual journey, this post will provide you with a comprehensive idea of what to expect. We’ve also included a map with all the locations we visited.

If you haven’t booked a flight for your group tour to Peru yet, you can choose a suitable one here (* affiliate link):

Day 1: Let’s begin your two weeks in Peru

Day 1 at a glance:

The first day of your group trip is dedicated to your arrival in Peru. Thanks to our international community on Instagram, our group is diverse, bringing together travelers from Germany, the USA, Canada, Portugal, and the UK in Lima. Lisa and Diogo, the guides and founders of Ataw Travels, greet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to the hotel in Lima. Here, you’ll meet your entire group for the first time. I was incredibly happy to see that the atmosphere was immediately relaxed and friendly. Everyone was excited about the journey ahead, and through our chats in our WhatsApp group and several video calls, we had already started to feel comfortable with each other. So, don’t worry about meeting your group for the first time. Everyone is just as excited (and nervous) as you are.

You’ll spend the first two nights in Lima, specifically in the Miraflores district. Miraflores offers a lively contrast with its mix of traditional colonial-era architecture and modern shopping and residential complexes. You’ll find colorful boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and parks to explore. The coast is within walking distance, allowing you and your group to spend the first afternoon taking a stroll through Miraflores.

Your walk will lead you to Parque Kennedy, where you can take a break and experience your first culinary highlight in Peru. Across from the park is La Lucha Sanguchería Criolla, renowned for its sandwiches. One of their specialties includes a roll filled with creamy sweet potatoes, tomatoes, pickled onions, and succulent pork. You can also opt for crispy fries and Chicha morada, a refreshing purple corn beverage that we absolutely loved.

You can end the day with a walk along the coast before heading to the welcome dinner in the evening. After that, you’ll likely be ready to fall into bed, quite exhausted.

Day 2: Exploring the Capital City Lima

Day 2 at a glance:

Your second day begins at a relaxed pace, perfect for shaking off any jet lag caused. You can start your morning with a delightful breakfast at one of the charming local cafes nearby or enjoy the included breakfast at the hotel.

Lisa and Diogo have arranged a visit to a local restaurant for a traditional ceviche lunch today. We’ll head to the Chorrillos district, near an area known as “Barriada.” I must admit, stepping out of the taxi, we were all quite surprised. It’s not a place we would have ventured into alone. Barriadas are informal settlements on the outskirts of Lima, somewhat similar to Favelas in Brazil. However, the culinary experience was outstanding! You’ll witness the preparation of ceviche, featuring fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onions, chili peppers, salt, pepper, and corn.

Afterward, you’ll explore the lively Barranco district. Everywhere you turn, there’s vibrant street art, artist galleries, cozy restaurants, and cafes. It’s easy to see why Barranco has become a favorite spot for Lima’s celebrities. We’ll also make a stop at a charming bar for a taste of Pisco, a local favorite. This mix of Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white foam packs quite a punch. Half a glass and my head already felt a bit heavy and tired.

To wrap up your day, we’ll visit the stunning Plaza de Armas in Lima’s historic district.

Day 3: Camping in the Desert

Day 3 at a glance

Today involves a 4.5-hour bus journey from Lima to the Ica Desert. Peruvian buses are surprisingly comfortable with baggage check-in, air conditioning, and reserved seats. Ataw Travels has organized the transfer, so you don’t need to worry about a thing. Upon arrival in Ica, you’ll switch to sand buggies. Strapped securely into your seat, you’ll go on an exhilarating ride over the sand dunes to your camp. It feels like a mini roller coaster and is loads of fun!

Once at the camp, the adventure continues with sand boarding and sand tubing. There’s plenty of time for memorable photos, and you’ll witness a breathtaking sunset as the sand dunes change color under the orange-red light of the setting sun.

Afterward, enjoy a barbecue dinner and a campfire, where you’ll have the chance to bond with your group. For us, this meant dancing and singing late into the night. At times, I found myself looking around at everyone, unable to wipe the grin off my face. I felt incredibly grateful and happy that these 11 individuals chose to take a leap and spend their precious vacation days together in a foreign land with strangers.

Day 4: Free day in the Huacachina Oasis

Day 4 at a glance

This morning, you leave the desert camp and travel to the Huacachina Oasis. The lagoon in the oasis is fed by an underground river. In the past, many visitors came to the lagoon to treat health issues like rheumatism or arthritis with its mineral-rich waters. Nowadays, they pump water in from another source to keep it from drying up, so it’s not the cleanest, and we decided against swimming.

In the oasis, you’ll have breakfast and, most importantly, a warm shower. Then, you have several hours of free time. Since you’ll be taking your first overnight bus this evening, Lisa and Diogo have arranged day passes for you at a hostel with a pool. You can relax there or opt for a wine tasting at the Tacama Winery, the oldest winery in South America. I chose the wine tasting and sampled some of Peru’s finest wines with fellow group members. We took a tour of the grounds and the production facilities, learning the proper technique for drinking Pisco along the way.

After enjoying your last desert sunset, you board the overnight bus. You have about 13 hours ahead of you to travel from Ica to Arequipa. I’ve experienced night trains and buses during my long-distance relationship between Vienna and Düsseldorf with Patrik, but fortunately, Peru’s night buses are a step up from those memories. The bus company “Cruz del Sur,” which you’ll be traveling with, has seats that recline 180 degrees. This allows you to get some sleep and arrive reasonably rested the next morning in Arequipa.

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Day 5: Welcome to Peru’s White City

Day 5 at a glance

Arriving in Arequipa in the morning, you first check into the beautiful Selina Hotel. The streets of Arequipa are bustling, but in the hotel’s garden, by the pool, or in the treehouse, you can just relax. If you’re looking for adventure, there are outdoor activities like white water rafting waiting for you.

That’s exactly what we choose. What can I say, we have an amazing afternoon. Just the drive to the Chili River with views of the Chachani Volcano is promising. Our guides are relaxed, fun, and really good at directing us. That doesn’t stop us from almost falling into the water now and then, but since we’re going to get wet anyway with the cliff jumping, it doesn’t really matter. The afternoon rafting is still one of my favorite memories to this day. Firstly, because I was surprised that the whole group, after the long night bus ride, was fully in. And secondly, because we were all one hundred percent in the moment.

Tag 6: Exploring Arequipa during your two weeks in Peru

Day 6 at a glance

Today is dedicated to exploring Arequipa, which I believe is the most beautiful city you’ll visit on this group trip.

You begin with a visit to the Mercado Central in Arequipa. Lisa and Diogo will take you and your group to one of the market stalls filled with exotic fruits, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors. There are fruits here that truly pack a punch: sweet, sour, creamy, powdery, vibrant, and subtle – something for every taste.

Next, you’ll head to the Yanahuara Viewpoint. From here, you’ll have a stunning view of Misti Volcano, which bears a resemblance to Mount Fuji in Japan.

After a refreshment break, you’ll also tour the Santa Catalina Monastery. If you’re passionate about photography like I am, you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from the numerous inner courtyards, narrow alleys, and historic chambers that offer insights into life at the monastery.

Founded in the 16th century, the monastery was originally intended to be a boarding school for wealthy residents’ daughters. Over time it became a convent, driven by the tradition of families sending their second daughters to the monastery.

From the monastery’s roof, you’ll enjoy a beautiful view of Misti Volcano, though the view from Plaza de Armas is even more breathtaking.

This square has Arequipa’s most important and most beautiful buildings and is framed by three volcanoes: Chachani, Pichu Pichu, and Misti. Plaza de Armas features numerous rooftop bars and restaurants, offering splendid views. While access to many rooftops is restricted, Lisa and Diogo have their insider tips and make sure you’ll capture a beautiful memory photo in Arequipa.

Late in the evening, you’ll embark on your second overnight bus journey toward Puno, a small port town on the edge of Lake Titicaca.

Day 7: The Highest Navigable Lake in the World

Day 7 at a glance:

Today takes you to Lake Titicaca, which is definitely not the easiest journey. After the overnight bus, a short taxi ride is followed by a boat trip. After 20 minutes, you stop to visit one of the approximately 40 floating islands.

These islands fascinated me. They are built from Totora reeds, tied together in heavy blocks. Such a reed island can last up to 50 years but requires constant maintenance. Every few months, new Totora reeds need to be added to prevent the island from decaying too quickly. The islands are home to the Uros, an ethnic group believed to descend from the Pukinas, one of the oldest peoples on Earth. The Uros make the most of tourist visiting from all over the world. They offer island tours, explain the construction and maintenance of the islands, and sell handcrafted Totora reed souvenirs.

After another 2 hours by boat, you finally arrive at Taquile Island at 3,800 meters above sea level. This makes Lake Titicaca the highest navigable lake in the world! You’ll feel the altitude for sure! Walking will be more challenging, especially with your backpack on. Breathing may become difficult, and you might experience mild headaches. But the effort is worth it. The tranquility, the views, and the seclusion make Taquile Island a truly special place. You can witness the island’s beauty on your sunset hike tonight. And since you’re staying only one night on the island, any early signs of altitude sickness should go away once you leave the island the next day.

Tag 8: Travel Day to Cusco

Day 8 at a glance:

Today is a long travel day. You’ll rise early, take a boat back to Puno, and then go on a long bus journey to Cusco. It’s a good opportunity to reflect on the past days and catch up on some sleep.

Tag 9: Welcome to picturesque Cusco

Day 9 at a glance:

Today, you have a free day to explore Cusco. It’s the perfect day to shop for souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones. The San Pedro Market is excellent for this. If you’re adventurous, you can also try some of Peru’s delicacies like grilled guinea pig or alpaca. It wasn’t to my taste, but don’t worry, there are plenty of other culinary options in Cusco

Be sure to explore the San Blas neighborhood in Cusco as well. Here, you’ll find countless beautiful views over the city, many small boutiques, and restaurants. A tip for a newer café with a great view is the Aura Restobar.

During your first day in Cusco, you’ll notice that it almost feels European. Prices are a bit higher, historical buildings blend with modernity, and the density of tourists from around the world increases. This is largely because Cusco serves as the gateway for travelers heading to Machu Picchu. And that’s exactly where you’ll be heading the next day.

Tag 10: Day one of your two-day Journey to Machu Picchu

Day 9 at a glance:

Today you begin your two-day journey to Machu Picchu. Perhaps, like me, you’re a bit surprised that it takes a whole two days to visit Machu Picchu. In this case, the journey itself is part of the adventure, as Lisa and Diogo have planned a stop at some beautiful hot springs first. The taxi ride here may be bumpy, but the views from the window and the warm water make up for it. Moreover, these springs are rarely crowded, allowing you to simply relax and unwind before continuing to Hidroeléctrica.

Upon arrival at Hidroeléctrica, it’s time to lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trail. For the next 10 kilometers, you’ll walk along the train tracks until you reach Aguas Calientes, also known as “Machu Picchu Pueblo.” Hiking along the tracks is not only the more affordable option but also a great way to fully appreciate the rainforest-like nature. It’s also the perfect opportunity to chat with fellow group members whom you may not have connected with much yet.

Occasionally, you’ll see the PeruRail train pass by. This train runs between Cusco and Aguas Calientes and is an option for travelers planning their Peru trip independently. While the train ride is undoubtedly the most comfortable way to reach Aguas Calientes, it’s also the most expensive.

Aguas Calientes itself is very touristy, lined with souvenir shops one after another. In the evening, you’ll have dinner with the group before an early night’s rest. Tomorrow, you’ll rise early again to embark on the second leg of your journey to Machu Picchu.

Day 11: Machu Picchu, one of the 7 New Wonders of the World

Day 11 at a glance:

Today is the day you’ve been waiting for! You’re going to witness Machu Picchu – one of the most significant cultural sites in the world!

But first, it means getting up early again. Very early, to be precise! The checkpoint to start the approximately 60-minute hike to Machu Picchu opens at 5 am. Lisa and Diogo know all too well that it gets overwhelmingly crowded later in the morning. You definitely want to share the breathtaking views with as few other tourists as possible. If you prefer not to hike at 4 am, you can also take a bus from Aguas Calientes. The first departure is at 5 am.

You may have to wait a while for the fog to clear and reveal the ruins of Machu Picchu. But believe me, once it clears, you’ll be amazed beyond words. The Inca ruin was likely built around 1450 and took only about 90 years to complete – each stone fitting perfectly with the next. It’s a wonder in itself how these massive stone blocks were brought into the densely forested mountain without modern equipment as we know it today. The site became famous in 1913 when American archaeologist Hiram Bingham emerged from an expedition deep in the mountains a few years before that.

With your guide, you’ll explore the ruins in the morning and learn a lot about the history of the Inca site. After descending, you’ll take the PeruRail back to Cusco in the afternoon, and the next day, you can finally sleep in.

Day 12: Back in Cusco

Day 12 at a glance:

You’ll be spending the next nights in Cusco until the end of your Peru group trip. Today, you have another free day to explore the city. How about horseback riding in the moutains of Cusco?

If you still have enough energy, you can also book a full-day trip to the Humantay Mountain Lake. It’s only accessible via a strenuous 1.5-hour hike.
Or you could do something unique like we did and get group tattoos. Definitely a travel souvenir of a different (and painful) kind.

Day 13: Hike to the Rainbow Mountains

Day 13 at a glance:

Just before wrapping up your two week Peru journey, you’ll venture up to the Rainbow Mountains. Near Cusco, there are several rainbow-colored mountains you can visit. The most famous is Vinicunca, where up to 2,000 tourists visit daily.

However, Lisa and Diogo have a fantastic less visited alternative in mind and will take you to the Palcoyo Mountains instead. The journey is long, starting around 3 AM in a minibus. But this early start means you’ll be among the first in the mountains, enjoying the absolute tranquility all to yourselves.

You’ll have the entire morning to marvel at the different colors and the surreal landscape around you, and to take a short hike. At nearly 5,000 meters altitude, the hike can be challenging, so plenty of breaks are planned. You can also take photos with llamas and alpacas on the Rainbow Mountains, brought by locals for tourists, for a few soles.

After the hike, a hearty lunch awaits you near an ancient Inca bridge before returning to Cusco, where you can relax in the afternoon.

Tag 14: Visit a Quechua family during your two weeks in Peru

Day 14 at a glance:

To wrap up your journey through Peru, a special highlight awaits: visiting a Quechua family. Quechua was the language of the Inca Empire until Spanish explorers arrived in South America in the mid-16th century, banning its use. That makes it a unique privilege to discover some of the ancient customs that have endured.

You’ll witness demonstrations of how the family dyes and weaves their clothes. Learn the meanings behind symbols on women’s attire, how natural ingredients are used for dyeing fabrics, and how roots and plants serve in washing their laundry. Plus, you’ll help prepare lunch cooked on a traditional stone oven. The menu includes chicken, vegetables, and maybe guinea pig if you’re curious, along with potatoes.

Back in Cusco, it’s the final evening after two weeks in Peru. After 14 days of shared adventures, it’s time to say goodbye to your group. A farewell dinner is planned, and for those interested, there’s a chance to celebrate together in Cusco’s bars and clubs.

Day 15: Time to Say Goodbye after two weeks in Peru

Today, there are no further activities planned. You’ll be flying from Cusco to Lima and then onward to your respective airport. Saying goodbye will be incredibly tough – it was for us, at least. But we’re already planning the next group trip – maybe next time to Colombia or Bolivia, and perhaps you’ll join us?

Hotels During Your two weeks in Peru

The hotels during your two weeks in Peru are simple yet comfortable and clean. Often, you’ll stay in hostels, though with Ataw Travels, we provided options for classic double and single rooms with private or shared bathrooms. It was important to me that after a long and eventful day, we had a comfortable hotel option that was still budget-friendly.

You’ll spend two nights on this trip on overnight buses. During these two days comfort and privacy are limited, but overnight buses are the most efficient way to cover long distances in Peru. At Lake Titicaca, there won’t be single rooms or private bathrooms for everyone in the group. Therefore, you’ll share a double room with a fellow traveler from your group.

How to get around during two weeks in Peru

During this group trip, you’ll primarily use public transportation such as buses and taxis. However, you won’t need to worry about departure times or tickets. Ataw Travels organizes all transfers for you, and Lisa or Diogo will be with you throughout the entire journey. They also handle airport transfers.

Cost of two weeks in Peru

costs:
€2,370 in a shared double room or €2,600 in a single room

Included:

All accommodations
14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
All activities listed in the itinerary
All transportation between cities and to activities
Airport transfer

Not Included:

International flights
Travel insurance
Visa fees, if applicable
Additional activities on free days
Meals not listed

Additional Costs: It’s hard to predict how much you’ll spend on souvenirs, meals, or optional activities since I don’t know your preferences and spending habits. In our group, we dined at upscale restaurants, regularly visited bars, bought many souvenirs, and participated in optional activities. I spent about €500 extra, averaging €34/day, but I am sure €350 would have been enough.

Next Peru Group Trip

You can find dates for upcoming Peru trips by Ataw Travels here. These trips do not include Patrik or me, and the group will not be from our community. Lisa and Diogo do an excellent job as guides, so we wholeheartedly recommend all the dates. If you’d like to support us, please mention “Our Travel Treats” as your referral source in the “How did you find us?” section when signing up. This provides us with a small commission at no extra cost to you. When we plan another group trip to Peru, you’ll receive all the details through our newsletter. We look forward to traveling with you soon!

If you have any questions or suggestions about the two weeks in Peru, feel free to contact us on Instagram.
Check out our blog posts on other destinations on our blog homepage.

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our.traveltreats

Hey there! We’re Laura and Patrik, a couple of travel bloggers from Germany. We love exploring new destinations whenever our jobs in Germany give us the chance to do so. Last year we opted not to quit our jobs and go on a world trip. Instead, we make the most of weekends, national holidays, and our annual leave to discover new cities, hiking trails, and unique hotels. On our blog, our.traveltreats, we share our best travel tips, itineraries, and hiking guides for ’part-time travelers’ like ourselves. We show you that you don’t need to make drastic changes like quitting your job and becoming digital nomads to fill your life with travels.

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