Exploring Peru: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Cusco

Lima: Peru’s coastal capital

Begin your adventure in Lima, a city that blends colonial heritage with a thriving culinary scene. Stick to walkable neighborhoods like Miraflores and the more artsy Barranco during daylight hours, where colorful streets and ocean views make for fun and easy exploration.

The beautiful coast of Lima

Lima is a foodie destination, so take a cooking class, wander local markets, and experience why it’s considered one of the world’s great culinary capitals. And of course, you have to try the local cocktail, the Pisco Sour, as well as one of Peru’s signature dishes: ceviche. We sampled ceviche in every area, and it never disappointed. The secret is in the “tiger’s milk”—the citrus-based marinade that cures the fish. It’s so flavorful, you’ll want to drink it with a spoon! I recommend trying Isolina for lunch and Astrid y Gaston for dinner.

Isolina in Barranco

In the historic center, visit the grand Plaza de Armas, Lima Cathedral, and the beautiful San Francisco Monastery and Catacombs. For a pre-Inca contrast, explore the ancient adobe pyramid of Huaca Pucllana, right in the middle of Miraflores. Don’t miss the Museo Oro del Perú (Gold Museum), home to more than 20,000 artifacts—many from Pre-Columbian cultures. End your day with a stroll along the coastline in Miraflores or Barranco for a spectacular sunset over the Pacific.

I recommend staying at either the JW Marriott or the Belmond Miraflores Park. Or in the bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, the luxury art-focused Hotel B.

The Sacred Valley: A cultural and scenic beginning

After flying into Cusco, head straight to the Sacred Valley to ease into the higher altitude. This region is full of farmland, lively markets, and ancient ruins, and is the perfect place to slow down, settle in, and adjust to the altitude. Historical sites such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo showcase terraced hills and stone fortresses that tell amazing stories of Incan ingenuity.

Beautiful weaver in Ollyantambo

I recommend a stop in the local villages or an Andean home to watch traditional weaving in action. We were lucky enough to visit a private family’s home where we learned the art of dying brightly colored wool spun on handmade looms, with techniques passed down through generations. Here you can also visit a community farm, where alpaca herders share stories and beautifully woven goods.

If you have time, hike along the trails by the Urubamba River, explore the circular terraces of Moray, or visit the salt pans of Maras. The Sacred Valley is also a wonderful place to recharge—many of the accommodation options have spas, outdoor pools, and wonderful places to unwind.

A local family who graciously took us in and shared their traditions

Accommodation

We stayed at the very special Sol y Luna, where the story behind the property is as beautiful as the hotel itself. Founded to support local children through education and community programs, the hotel’s profits sustain its foundation—guests can even visit the local school to see this inspiring work firsthand.

A few other accommodation options include Tambo del Inka, which you will find set along the Urubamba River and has its own train to Machu Picchu. The Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado pairs riverside serenity with Belmond’s signature charm. And for a stay that includes meals, transportation, and daily adventures, Explora Valle Sagrado offers an exceptional all-inclusive experience with guided explorations throughout the region.

Machu Picchu: The icon of Peru

Reaching Machu Picchu is the pinnacle of many travelers’ Peruvian journeys—and it truly lives up to its reputation. I hiked the 1-day Inca Trail, which provided a great introduction to Incan history and a breathtaking first view of the citadel through the Sun Gate.

If you are up for the challenge, I would also recommend hiking Huayna Picchu. I found it a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience that offers sweeping, once-in-a-lifetime views of Machu Picchu from above. Doing both of these hikes over the course of two days allows you to see Machu Picchu for two days and from various vantage points.

It was raining at the end of our Inca trail hike but it didn’t dampen the views. Our return the next day was gorgous and sunny.

Getting there & getting around

Most travelers reach Machu Picchu by train from the Sacred Valley or Cusco. Luxury options such as the Belmond Hiram Bingham or the Vistadome offer scenic rides through the Andes to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the site. From there, a short shuttle climbs to the entrance. Guided tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the site’s history and symbolism.

Our wonderful guide who was with us for five days—he became like family.

Accommodation

In Aguas Calientes, we stayed at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, which offers beautiful accommodations tucked into the cloud forest. It feels like a true earthy sanctuary surrounded by orchids and the most hummingbirds I have ever seen in one place. For those wanting to be literally outside the entrance of Machu Picchu, there is also the Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel.

Important logistics

• Permits are required for all Inca Trail hikes and sell out months in advance.

• Timed entry tickets are mandatory for Machu Picchu and for climbs such as Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. These are also limited and need to be booked in advance.

• Train and bus connections must align with your assigned entry time.

Because of these details, working with a travel advisor can make a world of difference—ensuring the correct permits, seamless transfers, and a well-paced itinerary that balances exploration with acclimating to the altitude.

Cusco: Gateway to the Andes

End your journey in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and a living museum of Andean culture. Saving Cusco for last allows your body to adjust to the altitude gradually, as Cusco is at the highest elevation (even higher than Machu Picchu), which is a key tip for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Spend a few days exploring the Plaza de Armas, the San Blas district, and nearby Sacsayhuamán (pronounced sexy woman—a tip from our guide). Within the historic center, walking is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

There are several great restaurants here. A few I would recommend are Cicciolina, Chica, Mauka, and Uchu Steakhouse. As well as several wonderful hotels: Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Palacio del Inka, and Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel.

Mercado Central

Don’t miss Mercado Central in Cusco—a bustling, colorful market at the heart of the city where stalls are piled high with everything you can imagine. From fresh Andean potatoes, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs to local cheeses, grains, and handmade textiles, it’s amazing. Take some time to wander through the aisles and sample a few local treats.. It’s a great snapshot of the city’s culture and cuisine.

Peru, in sum

In addition to the stunning landscapes and the awe of Machu Picchu, what really makes this area special is the people. Everywhere I went—in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the villages along the way—I was struck by their kindness and generosity.

One of the things I loved learning is that they don’t measure wealth by money, but by the friends and family in your life. I have a feeling you’ll leave with a newfound perspective and respect for both the land and the people of Peru.

On the last day he gave us a gift and brought his wife to meet us.

Best time to visit

Peru is a destination you can enjoy year-round, but the dry season (May to October) offers the best conditions for clear skies, comfortable travel, and outdoor adventures. From November through March, the coast enjoys warm summer weather, perfect for exploring Lima’s neighborhoods or indulging in its vibrant food scene. But in the Andes and Amazon, this is the rainy season, so some trekking routes may be limited or closed.

I would recommend a trip of 8 to 10 days, which allows time to experience Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco at a relaxed pace. Add a few extra days for Lake Titicaca or the Amazon if you’d like to extend your trip.

Sample itinerary

• Days 1–2 (Lima): Arrive and settle in. Spend your first full day exploring Miraflores and Barranco, visiting historic landmarks, and diving into Lima’s world-famous food scene. Don’t miss the Pisco Sour and ceviche—together they’re the taste of Peru!

• Days 3–4 (Sacred Valley): Fly into Cusco and transfer directly to the Sacred Valley to ease into the altitude. Visit villages, markets, and Incan sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

• Days 5–6 (Machu Picchu): Take the train to Aguas Calientes for one or two nights. Visit the citadel with a guide, catch sunrise, and hike Huayna Picchu for panoramic views.

• Days 7–8 (Cusco): Return to Cusco to explore its cobblestone streets, ancient ruins, and artisan shops.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Peru page.