Impactful Peru Trip in 11 Days

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Build a Custom Tour



Looking for something a little different? At Impactful Travel, we specialize in crafting custom itineraries tailored to your unique travel desires and ethical values.

Build Your Trip

  • 11 Days, 10 Nights(customizable)
  • Group Size: 1 - 8(Larger groups possible)
  • March - January(Inca Trail closed in February.)

Unveiling the Essence of Peru in 11 Days: Travel Responsibly

Embark on an 11-day journey through Peru that’s as heartfelt as it is transformative. While the duration may be brief, our meticulously crafted itinerary ensures an authentic immersion in the Peruvian culture. Travel through iconic destinations: vibrant Lima, the enchanting Cusco paired with visits to the Sacred Valley and the legendary Machu Picchu, and the serene expanses of Lake Titicaca.

We champion the ethos of slow travel, not only to amplify your travel experience but also to foster positive interactions with the places you visit. This itinerary isn’t just about checking off destinations — it’s about diving deep into the heart and soul of Peru, ensuring responsible travelers truly engage with the essence of this beautiful country during their 11-day trip.

Route Highlights

Your itinerary begins in Lima, a melting pot of dynamic culture, tantalizing culinary scenes, and exquisite colonial architecture waiting to be explored.

Hiking to Machu Picchu

You’ll then head to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and explore the surrounding Sacred Valley, visiting local communities and experiencing their daily life. Of course, no trip to Peru would be complete without witnessing Machu Picchu’s marvel, the lost city of the Incas. You’ll trek along an authentic Inca Path toward the ruins and have ample time the following day to soak in the breathtaking scenery.

Woman trekking the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with RESPONSible Travel Peru's partner agency Alpaca Expeditions

After your Machu Picchu excursion, we’ll take you back to Cusco. Here you’ll have some free time to explore the city’s rich history and culture.

Man and woman over a totora boat after harvesting reeds in Titicaca

Sailing Lake Titicaca

Next on our itinerary is the stunning Lake Titicaca! Here, you’ll visit the non-commercial Uros Titino floating islands and meet local families to learn about their daily life. You’ll go fishing in a traditional sailboat and even take a ride in a wicker boat. Afterward, we’ll head back to Walther’s Inti Wasi for one last night with your host family before bidding farewell to beautiful Peru.

In just 11 days, this itinerary offers a unique opportunity to travel through Peru’s rich history, culture, and traditions while supporting responsible travel practices. Let us help you make the most out of your holiday with this customizable itinerary designed just for you!

Booking or modifying this itinerary

As every long itinerary (6 days+), you can book this tour as it is, or adapt it with one of our travel designers until it is completely to your wishes. If that is what you want, please read through this itinerary carefully and then get in touch with our team telling us what you’d like to change to this example itinerary.

You can read the detailed Day-to-Day description below or contact us directly for the full itinerary in PDF with much more information.

We believe that travel can be a force for good. That’s why we’ve infused our itinerary with Impactful travel practices, ensuring that our journeys support local communities while preserving their culture and environment. If this trip isn’t perfect for you; check out our other amazing itinerary options. For example, we have a shorter version of this itinerary that focuses on Lima and Cusco only, and takes only 7 days!

Gallery

Slide through some images to get an idea of what you might see on this trip!

Day by Day

Note:

Once you enquire this tour, we will send you a full PDF itinerary with much more information: more complete descriptions, upgrade and downgrade tips, recommendations, options, and prices for the domestic flights. Please use the short enquiry form at the top right of this page. 

Day 1Arrival Lima

Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival at Lima airport, a driver will pick you up with your name on a sign, and bring you to the hotel. This driver only speaks basic English: we hope this won’t be a problem.

Free evening, dinner not included.

Standard hotel option: a nice, small-scale hotel in Barranco (or Miraflores) that breathes the Lima atmosphere. Two- to three-star equivalent.
Superior hotel option: a beautiful small boutique hotel in an old mansion in Barranco (or Miraflores) with modern comforts in a beautiful authentic surrounding.

Day 2Lima - Walking Tour - Biodiversity and gastronomy night

Experience Lima like a local on a comprehensive walking tour that includes visits to the Surquillo market and historic center. Using Lima’s public transportation, the tour offers an authentic peek into daily life. Sample exotic fruits, such as chirimoya and lúcuma, at Surquillo market and indulge on handmade ice cream as you explore San Martin square, Jirón de la Unión, Plaza de Armas, and the San Francisco church. For lunch, your guide can recommend a nice place near your hotel.

In the afternoon, let us take you on an unforgettable journey of the senses through the diverse Peruvian landscape with stops at the jungle, highlands, and coast. Our first stop will introduce you to the products of each region. We’ll then venture on to the jungle with an opportunity to taste some of the most unknown yet delightful cuisines. Following the jungle, we’ll head to the magical Andean region, indulging in its famous grains and tubers. Then, it’s on to the coast where we’ll savor the freshest and delectable seafood available. Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional mouth-watering desserts. Yes, we are staying in Lima 😉

Overnight stay in the same hotel.

Day 3Lima - Cusco (3.400m) - Moray - Maras - Ollantaytambo (2.850m)

In the morning, you will be driven to the airport to travel to your next destination, Cusco! Upon arrival in Cusco, you will initially receive a short briefing from one of our colleagues at the airport. Then, the journey will continue to the Sacred Valley, with a stop at Moray: an impressive Inca site with rounded terraces built downwards into the hills. Most likely, this was a place where the Incas adjusted crops to the temperatures of the different altitudes. You can walk around with your guide and take pictures.

Lunch at Tiobamba. Finally, the itinerary includes a visit to the salt mines of Maras, which have been in use since the Inca era up to the present day. Afterward, you will arrive at the most beautiful town in the Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo – where you will spend the night.

In the afternoon you will have a briefing on the logistics of the Inca Trail.

Day 4Short Inca Trail day 1: Hiking to Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes (2.100m)

This one-day hike is a great option for those looking to get a small taste of hiking the Andes while also visiting the most beautiful ruins of Wiñay Wayna on the way to Machu Picchu.

Starting from the railroad at Km104, you will begin the trek with the group and ascend on an authentic Inca Trail, offering tremendous views of Machu Picchu and surrounding Inca sites. After three hours of hiking, you will reach the most beautiful Inca site on the trail, Wiñay Wayna, to learn about the history of the Incas with their elaborate water fountain, temples, and agricultural terraces.

After continuing the hike to the Sun Gate for picturesque views of Machu Picchu, you will descend to the lost city of the Incas when most travelers have left, for an exclusive experience. Dinner at Indio Feliz restaurant is included before retiring early to be one of the first to enter Machu Picchu the next day.

Tour Type: Hiking, adventure, history, culture
Good For:  Moderate physical fitness
Difficulty:  Moderate (15 km / 8 miles)

Day 5Short Inca Trail day 2: Machu Picchu "Lost City of the Incas" (2.430m) - Ollantaytambo

Early in the morning, you will take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (exact time to be communicated by your guide). Known as “The Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu is a world-renowned site located at 2.430 meters above the Urubamba River. Built in AD 1430 as an estate for Inca Emperor Pachacuti, the site is strategically tucked away between deep canyons and towering mountains, also known as Apus, which served as a fortress.

You will enjoy a two-hour guided tour with an English-speaking guide, with those holding tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain given adequate time to climb before the tour. The climb up to Huayna Picchu takes an hour and a half round-trip, while the Machu Picchu Mountain climb takes approximately three hours round-trip.

Following your visit, you will take the train back to the Sacred Valley the same afternoon.

Day 6Day of Fellowship in the High Andean Communities - Pisac - Cusco

Join us for an unforgettable day in a high Andean community, where you’ll experience daily life and contribute to the sustainable development of the community. After breakfast, we’ll head to Lamay to coordinate our visit and then make our way to the community. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the families who will share their customs with you.

You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a spontaneous agricultural task, where you’ll learn about the different varieties of native plants and crops, as well as the traditional tools and techniques used. After the activity, enjoy a typical lunch based on the products that the community produces.

In the afternoon, the women of the community will share with you the whole process of textile art – an integral part of their family dynamics. You’ll have the chance to learn about their customs and their role in the field. If we have enough time and energy, we’ll also stop at the archaeological complex of Pisac before continuing on to Cusco for a free night.

Hotel options in Cusco

For your stay in Cusco, we recommend the Niños Hotel as our standard option. This non-profit hotel supports its own projects with street children and was designed by the Dutch owner, Jolanda. It’s a cozy hotel, complete with a restaurant, so you don’t have to venture out if you prefer not to.

If you choose the Superior version of this trip, we’ll reserve a Superior room for you in the Antigua Casona San Blas, located in our favorite area of Cusco – San Blas. This recently restored (in 2016) casona offers three room categories, all with king size beds (though some rooms can also be arranged with twin beds).

Day 7Cusco - Walking Tour

Join our Walking Tour for a beautiful introduction to the city and a relaxing downhill walk. Our driver will take you to the archaeological site of Qenqo, followed by a visit to the impressive ruins of Sacsayhuamán with a great view of the city. Next up is the San Blas neighborhood, where you can explore the narrow streets and shops and take a break at one of our recommended cafes (not included). Finally, you’ll visit the famous Sun Temple before the tour ends with lunch tips from your guide.

After the tour (lunch not included), you have a free afternoon and evening in Cusco to enjoy the cities, shop for your favourite souvenir and explore the many gastronomic options in town! 

Day 8Cusco - Juliaca - Chifrón (at Lake Titicaca)

After breakfast, we’ll take you to Turismo MER’s office where you’ll board a bus bound for Puno. Along the way, we’ll stop at several attractions including Andahuaylillas, known for its picturesque stone square and 16th-century church with stunning murals. We’ll also visit Raqchi’s impressive temple of Wiracocha and enjoy a buffet lunch in Sicuani. Afterward, we’ll head up to La Raya, offering breathtaking views of the pass between Cusco and Puno. Our final stop is in Pucará, famous for its little bull figurines atop rooftops. We’ll arrive in Juliaca around 4:30 pm, then a driver will take you straight to Chifrón where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a cozy cottage with a stunning location.

Read more about community-based tourism around Lake Titicaca in this article by guest blogger Naline Roodbeen.

Day 9Chifrón - Uros Titino - Llachon - Chifrón

You’ll wake up to a stunning view of Lake Titicaca! After breakfast, your local guide will take you to San Pedro port in Llachon village. From there, we’ll take a motorboat to the non-commercial Uros Titino floating islands where we’ll be welcomed by a family, ride on a wicker boat, and learn about their daily life. Lunch at another family’s home in Llachon follows before heading back to Walther’s Inti Wasi for an afternoon of relaxation or exploration. Dinner and an overnight stay with the host family are included.

Day 10Chifron - Tikonata island - Chifron - Puno (3.850m)

Get ready for a photogenic adventure after breakfast as we’ll set sail on a sailboat with your guide to the small island of Tikonata. As we cruise along, you’ll learn about local fishing techniques and even have a chance to help with the nets.

Once we arrive at Tikonata, we’ll meet the caretakers who rotate in taking care of the island since it’s essentially uninhabited. You’ll also enjoy a visit to the small museum, including mummies discovered on this petite isle, before hiking to a stunning lookout point. Afterward, we’ll head back to Walther’s Inti Wasi for lunch and some free time before bidding farewell to our gracious host family and returning to Puno. The evening is free to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 11Puno - Juliaca airport - flight to Lima (end of program)

Time to say farewell to beautiful Peru. We’ll take you to Juliaca Airport this morning for your flight back to Lima. If you wish, you can book an afternoon flight out of Lima or extend your stay in Peru on your own or with us.

Thank you for choosing Impactful Travel!

Note:Customization options

So, you can book this tour as it is, or choose the superior option with improved hotels: please enquire our travel designers for that version. The Superior option also includes a private Inca Trail, instead of the group tour in case of the standard trip option. You can find all the information of what the trip does and does not include here.

If you want to make any changes to this trip, please feel free to enquire via the enquiry form on the top of this page, and let us know which changes you’d like to make. Some changes (like room types for groups of three, or families) can make the trip cheaper; other changes might make it more expensive. Our travel designers would be happy to help making changes to this trip or designing a completely different one, bespoke, only for you.

Tips:Possible extensions for this trip

First of all, if you are short on time, we also have a seven-day version of this trip, which takes Lake Titicaca out to save you four days.

Add a jungle experience to this itinerary

If you would like to add the jungle, it would be better to do so before or after Cusco, depending on which junge you’d like to visit. Shorter jungle adventures can be found in Tambopata; a beautiful and easy accessible jungle area around Puerto Maldonado that can be easily inserted between Lima and Cusco, in the case of this itinerary.

If you have time to spare and you would like to have a more authentic jungle adventure, definitely consider the Manu National Park. We have very unique trips in Manu including visits to native communities. Having five or six days is recommended, and since Manu trips start and end in Cusco, you could better insert it in between Cusco and Puno. 

Add northern Peru to your itinerary

If you love hiking and spectacular high mountain landscapes, definitely consider adding at least five days to visit the area around Huaraz: authentic mountain communities and trekkings of all sorts are awaiting you! Northern Peru holds more treasures though, like the archaeological sites around Trujillo and Chiclayo and the absolutely stunning Chachapoyas region that just seems to have it all.

Other ideas

Of course anything else is also possible, let us know what you like. The Galapagos Islands or Bolivia? Central Peru? A yoga retreat? A beach destination? We’d love to help you finish your Peru trip in the best fitting way whilst always keeping sustainability in mind.

Small version of transparent round logo of RESPONSible Travel Peru

Why is this experience Impactful?

We’re aware that taking a long-haul trip for just eleven days isn’t very sustainable, with the CO2 emissions from flights outweighing any limited positive impact. That’s why at our company we strive to promote slow travel and longer itineraries as part of our commitment to measuring and reducing our impact.

However, we understand that many of you have limited time to explore and satisfy your desire to visit destinations such as Machu Picchu and the Titicaca Lake. That’s why we’ve created this trip, designed with responsible and authentic tours and accommodations to show you on how even short trips can make a positive impact. Our hope is that you’ll get inspired and choose to travel responsibly with us (or others) in the future, as well.

We’d be happy to provide you with the full Sustainability Report of this itinerary, just contact us

Details

Price Includes

  • Full details on what's included are given in the PDF itinerary. In summary, the price includes:
  • All overnight staysIn towns and cities, you usually stay in nice, small-scale accommodations with a 2 to 3 star standard (3-star boutique in case of the Superior option). Breakfast is usually included (except in Niños Cusco). In rural areas, you'll stay (full board) in family homestays, generally with ensuite bathrooms. Prices based on double occupancy.
  • Mentioned excursionsGuided walking tours in Lima and Cusco, food tour in Lima, guided excursion Sacred Valley, shared Inca Trail (private in Superior option) including guided visit to Machu Picchu (incl. entrance fee), Lamay community visit (or similar) and the whole Titicaca program including sailboat fishing, visit of a reed island and Tikonata island.
  • Mentioned transfersLocal transfers in Lima, Cusco and Titicaca area (mostly private). Shared bus and train to/from Machu Picchu.
  • GuidesEnglish-speaking guides during most mentioned excursions; but not during the whole day.
  • Impactful Travel service!24/7 support from our team through Whatsapp group. Impactful Travel luggage tag for every traveler. Full trip customization service.

Price Excludes

  • There are many minor items that are not included in the price, either because they are optional or easier for you to pay on site. Some general exclusions on this trip, are:
  • Food and snacksWe'll include most meals in homestays and during excursions, but when there are many options of restaurants, we prefer you to choose for yourself. At the Niños Hotel in Cusco, this also counts for breakfast.
  • Domestic flightsWe can include the domestic flights in your package before you pay, but they are not part of the package price since the price tends to change a lot. We'll give you their separate price once you enquire, of course. By the way: international flights are obviously not included, either.
  • Optional items or direct payment (entrance fees)Optional excursions, additional services and entrance fees can be paid on site in cash (or booked in advance with us).
  • Other items not specifically indicated as includedLike early check-ins or late check-outs, souvenirs, laundry, tips, insurance and other personal expenses.
  • 18% sales taxesThis will be exonerated (if applicable) by sending us a passport copy of every tour participant. You can learn more about this by clicking on this text.
  • Read our Terms and Conditions (click here).

What to Bring

Frequently Asked Questions

About the Impactful Peru Trip in 11 Days

I'm traveling with children but I can't include them in the booking, now what do I do?

We’re thrilled that you’re planning a trip to Peru with your kids! We understand that traveling with children can be challenging, so we’re here to help make it as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

It’s important to note that due to the nature of Peru as a travel destination, we don’t recommend it for children under 8 years old. With the changes in altitude and long distances involved, it can be quite intense – but don’t worry, this particular trip has shorter distances.

Our child discounts are a bit complex, so to make sure you get the best deal possible, we’ll need to calculate them specifically for your family. You can book the trip and include your children as adults, and before you pay, we’ll send you the updated price that takes your children’s ages into account.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, we also offer family rooms that can save you quite a bit. We’re here to help you plan the perfect family trip to Peru, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

I would like to add a trip extension or make some changes to the proposed tour. Is that possible?

Absolutely! At our core, we specialize in custom itineraries, and have been doing so for over a decade! So, making changes to your trip or extending it is definitely possible.

Contact our travel designers and let us know what changes you’d like to make. You have two options to get in touch with us:

  1. Simply send us an email and mention the trip you’re interested in from our platform. You’ll find our contact details here.

  2. If you have more elaborate ideas about your trip and would like to start from scratch, you can fill in this form and we’ll get to work on your customized itinerary right away.

We’re here to help you create the trip of your dreams!

Isn't a 11-day trip too short for Peru?

We understand your concern that a 11-day trip might not be sufficient to explore the beauty and diversity of all of Peru. However, we also know that not everyone has the luxury of extended holidays. That’s why we’ve put together an itinerary that allows you to experience the best of Peru in a shorter timeframe without feeling rushed.

At Impactful Travel, we firmly believe that a trip should offer more than just a checklist of must-see destinations. It should be a transformative experience that allows you to immerse yourself in a destination, learn about its history and culture, and connect with its people. We’re confident that our 11-day itinerary strikes the perfect balance between exploring the highlights of Peru and allowing for a more meaningful experience.

Of course, we’re happy to tailor the itinerary to your unique preferences. Whether you’re looking for more time in a particular destination or want to participate in a specific activity, our travel designers are here to help you create your dream trip. We want your trip to Peru to be as unforgettable as possible!

I can't find out how to book the Superior option?

Yes, unfortunately the Superior option can not yet be booked directly on the platform, due to technical limitations. However, our team is happy to send you the PDF version of this trip with the prices for the Superior hotels and private Inca Trail. So just fill in the enquiry form at the top of this page, or contact us by email. Thank you very much!

How can I see the prices for this tour for my amount of travellers?

If you want to see the price for your situation, please select the desired package (Standard or Superior option) and an amount of travelers in the booking form on the right side of the website (or the top on the mobile version). You will then see that total price for your party right above it.  

Currently, showing prices for the Super Option isn’t working. We apologize, please just fill in the Enquiry Form and we’ll get back to you with the price list for the Superior Option. 

What should I pack for this tour?

Please refer to our article What to Pack for your Trip to Peru for all your questions about packing for your Peru trip. Whether you’re going to the jungle or the mountains, you’ll find the answers you need. You can also download a full Packing List for free. 

Is this tour physically demanding?

Just moderately: the Inca Trail is a few hours of uphill hiking. However, due to the altitudes, it’s advised to come in good shape and have a strong heart and lungs. In case of doubts, read our article on How to Stay Healthy in Peru or contact us. 

What is the highest point during this route?

Lake Titicaca is situated at 3.800m altitude (12,500ft) which is why we have it included only towards the end of the itinerary. It will be the highest point where you will stay overnight. 

Apart from that, the itinerary includes a few higher mountain passes of around 4.200 – 4.300 meters (13,800 – 14,000ft) altitude, but just for brief moments. So it’s quite a good itinerary in that regard (of course: we find it very important that you adapt well to the altitude and enjoy your Peru trip to the fullest!)

What kind of weather should we expect during this route?

After a short program on the coast, the rest of the trip takes place in the Andes. It tends to rain a lot between December and April, and it tends to be colder at night between May and August. Find more info about climates in Peru in our blog “Best Time to Travel to Peru“. 

Is this a private trip or will I share the experience with other travelers?

This is not a group trip: most transfers and excursions are fully private. On some excursions, you will meet other travelers, of course! You can find more details in the separate PDF we can send you once you enquire. 

General questions

For questions about booking a tour, prices, preparation for your trip, health and safety or other themes, please check our Frequently Asked Questions page. If you can’t find your question & answer, email us and we’ll add it!

Reviews
Your Travel Designer
Myrna, one of RESPONSible Travel Peru's travel designers, specializes in assisting travelers to make the best out of their Peru trip

Myrna Lozada

Travel Designer

Introducing Myrna, our specialist travel designer for the American market. With decades of experience, she understands that not everyone has the luxury to take long trips yet offers travelers the best possible experience, no matter the duration. Myrna is passionate about creating immersive and transformative journeys that showcase the best of Peru while respecting the environment and local communities.

We’re excited to feature this package that enables you to travel Peru responsibly in eleven days, including the must-see highlights along with unforgettable experiences, carefully curated by Myrna herself. If this package isn’t perfect for your specific preferences, just get in touch with her and she’ll work with you to create the trip of your dreams. We’re committed to making your Peru travel experience unforgettable, no matter how long or short your stay may be.

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