The Ideal 15-Day Peru Itinerary Including Lake Titicaca

Fifteen days is the sweet spot for a first trip to Peru. This route follows the altitude gradually, which makes the trip more comfortable. Days 1–2 · Lima: food, museums and the Pacific coast. Days 3–5 · Arequipa and Colca Canyon (2,300–3,600 m): the White City and condors over the canyon. A good first step for acclimatisation. Days 6–8 · Lake Titicaca (3,812 m): arrive in Puno, then spend 2 days and 1 night with Yonel's family in the community of Luquina Chico. Join the farm work of the season, walk with Bernardo the donkey, eat the home cooking of Yonel and his mother Cefererina and hike to Cerro K'añicristo. Want more calm? Choose the 3-day slow travel version. Days 9–13 · Cusco and the Sacred Valley: Inca sites, markets and Machu Picchu. Days 14–15 · Return to Lima and fly home. Why Titicaca in the middle? After Colca your body is already used to the altitude, and the slow rhythm of Luquina Chico is the perfect rest before the busy days in Cusco. Tip: book Machu Picchu tickets early and leave Titicaca flexible — Yonel can adapt dates and transport (public bus, private car or shared boat) to your route.