Peru is an incredibly diverse country, offering everything from high-altitude lakes and ancient ruins to desert dunes and coastal wildlife. My journey through Peru followed a logical route starting from Bolivia, traveling entirely by bus—some night buses and some day buses—making it a great itinerary for those wanting to explore the country efficiently. Below is the exact order I followed, with recommendations based on my experience.

 

1. Puno – Gateway to Lake Titicaca

After crossing the border from Bolivia, I made a stop in Puno, a small city on the shores of Lake Titicaca. While I had already visited Isla del Sol in Bolivia, Puno was a good place to spend the night before continuing to Cusco.

Recommendations:

 

• • Visit the Uros Floating Islands

• • Take a boat trip to Taquile Island

• • Walk along the Puno waterfront for sunset views over Lake Titicaca

 

2. Cusco – The Heart of the Inca Empire

Cusco is the historical capital of the Inca Empire and a hub for adventure seekers. I spent a month here working during the weekdays and using my weekends for hiking and exploring the region. There are countless treks and cultural experiences to enjoy.

Recommendations:

 

• • Machu Picchu – Take the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, or the train from Ollantaytambo

• • Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain – A great alternative to the more crowded Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain

• • Manu National Park – A chance to experience the Peruvian Amazon with incredible biodiversity

• • Seven Lagunas of Ausangate – A stunning day hike with turquoise glacial lakes and breathtaking mountain views

• • Explore the San Pedro Market for local food and souvenirs
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  • Walk through the San Blas neighborhood for its charming streets and artisan shops

 

3. Arequipa – The White City

Known as the “White City” due to its colonial architecture made from white volcanic stone, Arequipa is a beautiful and relaxed city. I only spent a few days here but enjoyed exploring the city’s main attractions.

Recommendations:

 

• • Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, a beautifully preserved convent with colorful courtyards

• • Explore the Plaza de Armas and enjoy a coffee with a view of Misti Volcano

• • Try local dishes like rocoto relleno and queso helado
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  • Although I didn’t have the time to visit, many travelers also visit Colca Canyon, home to the Andean condors, and one of the world’s deepest canyons

4. Huacachina – Peru’s Desert Oasis

Huacachina is a tiny desert oasis surrounded by massive sand dunes, making it a unique stop in Peru. It’s a great place to spend a day or two before continuing north.

Recommendations:

 

• • Go sandboarding and take a dune buggy tour for an adrenaline-filled experience

• • Watch the sunset over the dunes
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  • Relax by the oasis with a drink

5. Paracas – The Poor Man’s Galápagos

Often referred to as the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” Paracas is a small coastal town famous for its wildlife and national reserve.

Recommendations:

 

• • Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands to see sea lions, penguins, and seabirds

• • Visit the Paracas National Reserve for dramatic desert landscapes meeting the ocean

• • Relax on Playa Roja, a stunning red-sand beach

 

6. Lima – The Culinary Capital of South America

Peru’s capital is a vibrant city with great food, coastal views, and a mix of modern and colonial architecture.

Recommendations:

 

• • Try the famous ceviche at a local restaurant

• • Walk along the Malecón in Miraflores for ocean views

• • Visit Barranco, Lima’s bohemian district with street art, cafes, and live music
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  • Explore the Historic Center with its grand plazas and churches

7. Huaraz – Gateway to the Cordillera Blanca

Huaraz is the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca, one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. This is a must-visit for hikers and adventure lovers.

Recommendations:

 

• Laguna Parón – A stunning turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks

• Laguna Llanganuco – A breathtaking high-altitude lake with incredible scenery

Final Thoughts

This entire itinerary can be done by bus, making it a budget-friendly and scenic way to explore Peru. Whether you’re into history, adventure, or nature, this route offers a little bit of everything. Have any questions about traveling in Peru? Drop them in the comments below!