Ultimate 10 Days Peru and Colombia Itinerary

Arriving in Lima, the capital of Peru, your 10 days Peru and Colombia trip begins where the city’s blend of colonial heritage and modern vibrancy is immediately striking. A city tour begins with a visit to Plaza Mayor, where the grand Cathedral and Government Palace provide a glimpse into Lima’s rich history. As the sun sets, the coastal views along Miraflores create a stunning backdrop, and dinner at one of the city’s renowned seafood restaurants offers a taste of Peru’s famous ceviche, paired with a refreshing pisco sour.

A short flight leads to Cusco, the former Inca capital, nestled high in the Andes. The city welcomes visitors with a striking mix of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. It’ll take a day to acclimatise so start by taking it easy with a tour of the historic centre including the Plaza de Armas, the impressive Qorikancha temple, and the mighty ruins of Sacsayhuamán. As evening falls, a traditional Andean meal—perhaps featuring quinoa or alpaca—complements the mystical atmosphere of Cusco.

The next stop on your 10 days in Peru and Colombia trip takes you into the Sacred Valley, a region steeped in history and breathtaking landscapes. In Ollantaytambo, the towering Inca fortress offers panoramic views of the valley below. A visit to Pisac reveals a bustling market filled with colourful handicrafts, while a stop at a nearby village provides insight into traditional weaving techniques and ancient agricultural practices. The day ends with a peaceful return to Cusco.

So this is it. Your 10 days in Peru and Colombia trip will have many memories but today will be at the top! A scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo leads to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. After a short bus ride up the winding mountain roads, the sight of the legendary citadel emerges from the mist, an awe-inspiring testament to Inca ingenuity. Time is spent exploring its many wonders, from the Temple of the Sun to the Intihuatana stone and the Inca Bridge. The return journey to Cusco provides a moment to reflect on the day’s extraordinary experience.

A flight from Cusco arrives in Bogotá, Colombia’s dynamic capital. The La Candelaria district, with its cobbled streets, colonial buildings, and vibrant street art, offers an ideal introduction to the city. A visit to the Gold Museum unveils an extensive collection of pre-Columbian artefacts, followed by a cable car ride up Monserrate Hill for sweeping views of Bogotá’s vast urban landscape.

Exploring Bogotá’s cultural richness continues with a stroll through La Candelaria, where colourful murals and quirky cafés line the streets. The Botero Museum showcases the distinctive oversized sculptures of Fernando Botero, adding to the artistic flair of the city. In the evening, local Colombian flavours take centre stage, with dishes like arepas or the hearty ajiaco chicken and potato soup providing a satisfying end to the day.

A short flight takes you to the next stop on your 10 days in Peru and Colombia trip - Cartagena, a colonial treasure on the Caribbean coast. Take a city tour within the walled Old Town, where you’ll enjoy the cobblestone streets, vibrant plazas, and brightly painted facades create a picture-perfect setting. The formidable Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a 16th-century fortress, stands as a testament to the city’s strategic importance. Wandering through the bustling streets of the Old City, the air is filled with the scent of tropical flowers and the rhythm of Caribbean music.

A day to unwind along Cartagena’s stunning coastline begins at Playa Blanca, where turquoise waters and soft white sands offer a tranquil escape. Returning to the Old Town in the afternoon, the magnificent Palacio de la Inquisición and the grand Cartagena Cathedral provide further insight into the city’s rich history. As the sun dips below the horizon, a sunset stroll along the ancient city walls offers breathtaking views over the Caribbean Sea.

On the second last day of your 10 days in Peru and Colombia trip, a morning flight takes you to Medellín, Colombia’s innovative and ever-evolving second city. Once shaped by a turbulent past, Medellín now thrives with urban renewal and artistic expression. A visit to Comuna 13 reveals a neighbourhood transformed by vibrant street art and community initiatives. The Metrocable ride offers panoramic views of the city spread across the Aburrá Valley, while Plaza Botero, filled with the famous oversized sculptures, provides a fitting end to the day.

The journey concludes with a return to Bogotá. A final walk through the historic centre allows time for last-minute shopping, whether for Colombian coffee, handcrafted souvenirs, or a final taste of local cuisine. As the day winds down, reflections on the rich cultures, ancient histories, and stunning landscapes you have experienced on your 10 days in Peru and Colombia trip bring this unforgettable South American adventure to a close.