Spend the first couple of days in Peru’s lively capital Lima, formerly known as the ‘City of Kings’. Enjoy all that Lima has to offer such as the incredible town square, grand cathedrals, palaces, the picturesque Malecon esplanade on Miraflores seafront, and colonial Barranco, the bohemian hub of Lima.

For the foodies reading, Lima is one of the most iconic cities for its culinary scene. Sample exciting and vibrant dishes such as ceviche by the sea, before enjoying a pisco sour in one of the many chic bars across town.

Leave Lima behind and venture to the gorgeous coast before arriving in Huacachina. Whilst here, opt to get your adrenaline pumping by sandboarding on the desert’s dunes as you watch the breathtaking sunset in the distance.

One of the most iconic sights in Peru are the Nazca Lines. Enjoy a scenic flight over these large geometric patterns and animal shapes drawn into the Peruvian desert that are only visible from the sky; the formation of these is a mystery to this day!

Spend a couple of days in Arequipa, the Cuidad Blanca (White City). Arequipa is very rightly famed for its beauty as it’s framed by three volcanoes and contains stunning colonial architecture.

The city is perfect for exploring, with countless churches and museums to appreciate. Like Lima, Arequipa’s food scene offers exciting dishes to sample, being most famous for their spicy regional cuisine. Can you handle the heat?

From Arequipa, set out to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and home to sensational scenery and an exciting variety of wildlife. Andean condors are the most notable in this region and are one of the world’s largest flying birds. Cruz de Colca (Condor’s Cross) is a highlight as it is set deep on the canyon, perfect for taking in the views and potentially seeing an Andean condor soaring majestically above.

Travel up to 3,360m above sea level and explore the old capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco. The city offers a wealth of stunning architecture and archaeology, and of course spectacular views. Whilst in this interesting city, wander around the colourful markets and take full advantage of the buzzing bars and delicious restaurants to have a well-rounded visit.

Head into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, set dramatically in the Andes, close to Inca’s capital of Cusco and the iconic Machu Picchu. The valley is famed for its jaw dropping scenery, fascinating villages, and the majestic Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, and was created by the Urubamba River.

During your time here you’ll also experience local life during a visit to Pisac Market.

For the active travellers, spend a few days climbing the impressive and challenging Inca Trail before reaching the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu! The iconic landmark is remarkably nestled 2,430m above sea level in the Andean Mountain range and offers incredible views. There have been many questions that remain unanswered about how this citadel was established, see for yourself…

After marvelling at Machu Picchu, come slightly closer back down to earth in Puno; a bustling city, busy with trade links to and from Bolivia and comprised of narrow pathways and busy, congested streets. Throughout the year, there are various festivals where you can see and experience the local dances and folklore. The Plaza de Armas is at the heart of the city and is surrounded by the cathedrals, museums, shops, restaurants, and bars for you to explore.

Neighbouring Puno is Lake Titicaca, a photographer’s dream. The lake is the largest in South America and is extremely picturesque due to its deep blue shimmering waters, the backdrop of Bolivia’s highest mountains and tiny floating reed islands.

Whilst here, spend time with the local community to learn about their lives and traditions, and board a cruise to Taquile Island and the Uros Islands.

From Lake Titicaca, travel down to the final stop, La Paz in Bolivia. The vibrant city is home to historic cobblestone streets, lively markets, quirky museums, and bustling nightlife with a variety of restaurants serving local and Western cuisine. La Paz also has many peñas (folk music venues) which are a great way to get a taste of local life!