I'd like to spend 7-9 days in Peru. We have free miles to get there, and some free hotel miles. We can afford a rental car and meals, but not a lot of trains, boats, adventures, etc. I'd like to fly into Lima, and then visit one or two scenic places. For example, we have free hotel points where we could stay in Lima, and then drive to Paracas for a few days (Hiltons in both places). I know, it'd be a shame to go to Peru and not see Machu Picchu. BUT it seems that that might be more than we can afford. And it'd be better to go to Peru than to not go at all, right? So I'm wondering what other ideas you might have for such a trip.
10 day itinerary for Peru on a small budget
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What is a "small" budget? I'm sure if you have enough to rent a car, you have enough to see Cuzco and Machu Picchu. I honestly think it would be a waste to come to Peru and not see one of the main highlights. Paracas certainly isn't worth an international trip!
So to be a little more clear, my question is: have any of you been to wonderful scenic places, interesting small towns, etc. within a few hundred miles of Lima that can be reached by car? Places that would give us a taste of Peru?
With miles, you should be able to get all the way to Cusco by plane.
The minimum train fare to get to Aguas Calientes is now about $100 per person (take an Expedition train from Ollantaytambo). Bus up to the site is about $18 pp, and the entrance fee is $50 pp. If you buy these all yourself (can be done online) you can do it for around $200 for the excursion. Go early, stay late.
You can take public transportation between Cusco and Ollantaytambo rather than a taxi, it isn't unsafe although can be crowded.
Lodging and food can be found in all price ranges, with private bath you can do for $50 to $60 a night for two, or less. It isn't necessary to spend $300 to $500 a night.
And no, I don't think it is worth wasting miles to only visit Lima and Paracas. By all means use your miles in Lima, but I might not even do Paracas at all, if it means missing the Sacred Valley, Cusco and MP.