Cross Peru from Pacific desert to Andean highlands and the Amazon over 21 days. Visit Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Colca, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, Machu Picchu and an Amazon lodge while learning about pre‑Inca and Inca engineering.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning fog lifts off the Pacific as your coach rolls out of Miraflores and the country opens like a map—coastal desert, high puna, terraced valleys and then, finally, the Amazon’s green roil. This 21-day circuit links Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Colca, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with a short Amazon detour in Iquitos, a route that reads like a primer in Peruvian landscapes.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
21 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—comfortable with long bus days, short hikes, stair climbs and several high-altitude nights.
Wildlife
History
Peru’s sites span millennia: pre‑Inca coastal cultures like Paracas and Nazca engineered aqueducts and geoglyphs, while the Inca established stone terracing and administrative centers that shaped the highlands.
Conservation
Several stops fall within protected areas (Paracas Reserve, Colca region) where visitor numbers and boat approaches are controlled—respect rules, avoid single‑use plastics and buy local crafts to support communities.
Reserve your spot on the Peru Highlights 21 day adventure tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize gradually
Several nights are spent above 2,300 m—avoid heavy exertion the first 24–48 hours at altitude and drink extra fluids.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
High UV at altitude and strong coastal sun mean SPF 30+, wide-brim hat and sunglasses are essential every day.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Bring broken-in hiking shoes with good grip for Inca stonework, desert sand and uneven trails at ruins.
Cash for local purchases
Small markets, tips and some optional activities accept only cash (solely soles); ATMs are available in major towns but not remote sites.
Layered clothing (base, insulating, shell)
Temperature swings from coast to high Andes require breathable layers and a waterproof shell.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Required for uneven Inca stonework, desert dunes and canyon viewpoints.
High SPF sunscreen and sunglasses
High-elevation UV and strong coastal sun demand reliable protection.
Reusable water bottle with filter or purification tablets
Long coach transfers and remote sites make on-the-go hydration and safe water handy.