Peru is so much more than Machu Picchu— vibrant cities, dramatic landscapes, and a deep history will make two weeks feel too short.
Following this guide for the ultimate two-week road trip to see the country’s most unforgettable spots.
Immerse yourself in the local culture at Lake Titicaca, savour the freshest ceviche in Lima, and marvel at the diverse wildlife that roams this stunning country.
Lima is the food capital, and you can’t leave without doing a food tour to discover the city’s top spots, like the bustling Mercado de Surquillo, where you can try fresh ceviche.
Check out the Lima Cathedral and Government Palace at Plaza Mayor, then head to the vibrant districts of Miraflores and Barranco, where you can enjoy scenic ocean views, street art and bohemian cafes.
Just a short trip from Lima, you won’t forget watching the sunset after a day in the rare desert oasis of Huacachina.
It’s a toss-up whether the sandboarding or the buggy ride over the towering sand dunes is more exhilarating, but either way, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
Next on the tour is the “White City,” named so for its distinctive white stone architecture, which makes you think you could be wandering around a Spanish city.
Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery for a touch of culture, then head to one of the rooftop bars to watch the embers of a glowing sunset while sipping on a Peruvian pisco sour cocktail.
Before heading to Cusco, take a short detour to one of the deepest canyons in the world. You can spot alpacas on your drive, and you’ll likely be treated to a show of condors soaring overhead.
You could also visit natural hot springs nearby, which you’ll be glad to do as this area at high altitudes can get particularly cold.
Cusco is a hub for Peru’s most iconic hikes: Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. If you don’t get one of the allocated spots on the Inca Trail, fear not—the picturesque Salkantay Trek has been dubbed one of the most beautiful hikes in the world.
Rainbow Mountain is not for the faint-hearted, given its altitude of 5,036 metres (16,522 ft) above sea level, but it’s worth the challenge. After hiking for a few hours, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning rainbow formation with red, amber, and green layers on the opposing mountain.
When you get back, treat yourself to a breakfast of champions at Jack’s Cafe, famed for its exuberantly large portions.
A homestay is a great way to understand the agricultural way of life on the world’s highest navigable lake. You can also try kayaking before visiting the Uros Islands, a fascinating group of floating islands made from reeds.
If you have time at the end of your trip, head over the border to take a four-wheeled drive tour across the salt flats in Bolivia, which are so vast that they can be seen from space.
