Peru Travel Guide – Andes Wonders, Lost Cities & Living Culture

Intro to Peru Travel Guide

From the misty ruins of Machu Picchu to the floating villages of Lake Titicaca, Peru is a country where the past lives vividly alongside the present. Hike through ancient Inca trails, taste world-class cuisine in Lima, or marvel at rainbow-colored mountains and Amazonian biodiversity. Peru’s blend of geography, history, and Indigenous heritage makes it one of the most dynamic destinations in South America.

Start planning your journey with our complete Peru Tour Guide — from regions and top things to do in Peru to itineraries, food, and safety tips.

Peru by Region – Where to Go

Explore Peru’s regions for a diverse range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Lima & Central Coast – Culinary Capital and Coastal Charm

Lima is both Peru’s political and gastronomic capital. Explore colonial plazas, cutting-edge restaurants, and Pacific-facing clifftop parks in Miraflores. Head south to Paracas for wildlife-rich beaches or fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines.

Southern Highlands – Inca Heritage and Mountain Landscapes

Cusco, the former Inca capital, is the cultural heart of Peru. Use it as a base to reach Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Ollantaytambo. Further south, Puno and Lake Titicaca offer high-altitude living and Indigenous floating islands.

Northern Highlands – Ancient Civilizations and Hidden Trails

Trujillo and Chiclayo hold remnants of the Moche and Chimú civilizations. Explore Chan Chan, pyramids like Huaca Rajada, or head into the Andes to discover Chachapoyas and the cliff tombs of Kuélap — Peru’s lesser-known but striking answer to Machu Picchu.

Amazon Basin – Biodiversity and Eco-Adventures

Fly into Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos for access to Peru’s Amazon region. Visit eco-lodges, meet Indigenous tribes, and see pink river dolphins, caimans, and macaws in Manu or Tambopata.

Arequipa & Colca Canyon – Volcanoes and Colonial Splendor

Arequipa, known as the White City, dazzles with volcano views and Spanish-era architecture. Colca Canyon, deeper than the Grand Canyon, offers dramatic treks and condor sightings.

Huaraz & the Cordillera Blanca – Snow Peaks and Glacial Lakes

Peru’s adventure capital, Huaraz gives access to the Cordillera Blanca range. Trek to turquoise glacial lakes like Laguna 69, or attempt multi-day routes like Santa Cruz Trek.

Top Places to Visit in Peru

Explore these unforgettable destinations, grouped by travel style.

Cultural Capitals

• Cusco – A living Inca city with temples, cobbled streets, and vibrant Andean markets.
• Lima – Explore Peruvian gastronomy, world-class museums, and colonial neighborhoods.
• Arequipa – Architecture, volcanoes, and a unique blend of Andean and European traditions.

Nature Escapes

• Amazon Rainforest (Puerto Maldonado / Iquitos) – Remote lodges, river tours, and wildlife galore.
• Colca Canyon – Trekking trails, thermal baths, and soaring condors.
• Huaraz – Mountain treks, glacier lakes, and access to Peru’s tallest peaks.

Historic & Archaeological Sites

• Machu Picchu – The crown jewel of Inca ruins, reachable by train or multi-day hike.
• Kuélap – Pre-Inca stone fortress in northern Peru, often called the “Machu Picchu of the north”.
• Nazca Lines – Enigmatic desert geoglyphs best seen from above.

Lakes, Islands & Coasts

• Lake Titicaca – Visit Uros floating islands and Taquile’s textile-making communities.
• Paracas & Ballestas Islands – See sea lions, penguins, and seabirds along the coast.
• Máncora – A relaxed beach town known for surfing and sunshine.

How to Choose Where to Go in Peru

Let your travel priorities guide your route through this diverse country.

• For History and Archaeology – Focus on Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and Kuélap.
• For Nature and Adventure – Combine Huaraz for hiking, Colca Canyon for trekking, and Manu for jungle wildlife.
• For Culture and Local Life – Visit Lake Titicaca islands or explore village life in Sacred Valley and Azuay.
• For Relaxation and Beaches – Head north to Máncora and Vichayito for sun, sand, and ceviche.
• Efficient Pairings – Pair Lima with Paracas or Arequipa; combine Cusco with Lake Titicaca or Amazon for classic south Peru loop.

How to Get Around Peru

Peru’s large size makes flying essential for many long-distance routes, but scenic journeys abound.

• Domestic Flights – LATAM, Sky Airline, and JetSmart connect major cities like Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, Iquitos, and Piura.
• Long-Distance Buses – Cruz del Sur and Oltursa offer safe, comfortable service. Choose VIP seats for overnight comfort.
• Trains – Take scenic rides like Cusco to Machu Picchu (Inca Rail or PeruRail), or the luxury Andean Explorer from Cusco to Arequipa.
• Taxis and Rideshare – Uber works in Lima; elsewhere, use registered taxis or hotel-arranged drivers.
• Shared Vans (Colectivos) – Common for shorter routes between towns in the Andes and coast.
• Car Rentals – Not recommended for new visitors due to mountain roads and local driving norms.

Useful Apps – Rome2Rio (transport), Moovit (urban transit), and WhatsApp (for coordinating tours and lodging).

Travel Budget & Costs in Peru

Peru offers excellent value — whether backpacking or splurging.

Average Daily Budget
– Budget: $30–$50 (hostels, street food, buses)
– Mid-Range: $70–$120 (guesthouses, flights, guided tours)
– Luxury: $200+ (boutique hotels, private guides, gourmet meals)

Sample Prices
– Local meal: $3–$6
– Hostels: $10–$20/night
– Domestic flight: $50–$120
– Machu Picchu entry: $40 (base ticket)
– Sacred Valley day tour: ~$35–$50

Tips to Save
– Eat at menú del día restaurants
– Use buses or colectivos for regional travel
– Visit in shoulder season for cheaper stays
– Buy combo tickets for Cusco-area ruins (Boleto Turístico)

Best Time to Visit Peru

Climate varies dramatically by region and elevation, so timing depends on your focus.

May–September (Dry Season) – Best time to visit Peru for trekking, Machu Picchu, and highland travel. Expect sunny skies and cool nights.

October–April (Rainy Season) – Lush landscapes and fewer tourists, especially in the Sacred Valley and Amazon. Trails may be muddy or closed.

Seasonal Highlights
– June: Inti Raymi Festival in Cusco
– July–August: Peak tourism, ideal weather in Andes
– December–March: Best for coast and beaches

Must-See Experiences in Peru

These unforgettable things to do in Peru blend natural wonders, sacred sites, and living traditions:

• Hike to Machu Picchu – Choose from the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or take the train for an easier approach.
• Float on Lake Titicaca – Stay overnight with a host family on Amantaní or explore the reed islands of Uros.
• Trek to Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca dazzles with its mineral stripes. Go early to beat the crowds.
• Explore the Amazon by Canoe – Join jungle tours in Manu or Tambopata for night safaris, piranha fishing, and Indigenous encounters.
• See Condors in Colca Canyon – Rise early for the chance to see massive condors soar above cliffs.
• Feast in Lima’s Top Restaurants – Try ceviche at a beachside joint or reserve a tasting menu at Central or Maido.
• Fly Over the Nazca Lines – Short flights from Nazca or Pisco reveal surreal animal and geometric shapes etched in the desert.

Book immersive Peru tours and experience unforgettable things to do in Peru — from ancient citadels and jungle treks to culinary deep-dives and sacred lake rituals.

Best Travel Itineraries in Peru

Choose a travel plan that fits your timeline and goals — from ancient history to rainforest immersion.

7-Day Classic Peru

Route: Lima → Cusco → Machu Picchu
– 2 days in Lima for food, history, and coastal views
– Fly to Cusco: 2–3 days to acclimate and explore the Sacred Valley
– Day trip or overnight to Machu Picchu via train or short trek

10-Day Andes & Amazon Combo

Route: Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Amazon
– Start in Cusco and Sacred Valley (5 days)
– Fly to Puerto Maldonado for 3–4 nights at an Amazon lodge
– Return via Lima for one last night of dining and souvenirs

2-Week Grand Peru

Route: Lima → Arequipa → Colca Canyon → Lake Titicaca → Cusco → Machu Picchu
– Explore colonial Arequipa and hike Colca Canyon
– Bus to Puno for Lake Titicaca excursions
– End in Cusco with time for Machu Picchu, Maras, and Pisac

10-Day Northern Peru Explorer

Route: Trujillo → Chiclayo → Chachapoyas
– Discover archaeological treasures like Chan Chan, Lord of Sipán, and Kuélap
– Visit Gocta Falls and cloud forest tombs in Leymebamba
– Fly or bus back via Jaén or Tarapoto

Local Cuisine & Culinary Experiences

Peru’s cuisine is a global treasure, fusing Andean, Spanish, African, and Asian influences.

Must-Try Dishes

• Ceviche – Raw fish cured in lime with onions and chili; Peru’s national dish.
• Lomo Saltado – Stir-fried beef with soy sauce, onions, and fries — a Chifa (Chinese fusion) staple.
• Aji de Gallina – Creamy shredded chicken in yellow chili sauce, served over rice.
• Rocoto Relleno – Spicy stuffed peppers popular in Arequipa.
• Pachamanca – Andean feast cooked underground with meat, potatoes, and herbs.
• Anticuchos – Grilled beef heart skewers sold at street carts and restaurants.
• Chicha Morada – Purple corn drink flavored with cinnamon and pineapple.

Where to Eat

– Lima’s Fine Dining Scene – Book in advance for Central, Maido, or Kjolle
– Andean Markets – Try tamales, empanadas, or fresh juice in Cusco’s San Pedro Market
– Picanterías in Arequipa – Rustic restaurants with hearty, spicy dishes
– Amazonian Cuisine – Try paiche fish, banana leaf-wrapped juanes, and local fruit juices

Taste your way through Peru on street food walks, market tours, and regional cooking classes.

Travel Safety & Cultural Etiquette in Peru

Peru is generally safe for travelers, with a few region-specific precautions.

Safety Tips

– Keep belongings secure in Lima and Cusco; avoid flashy displays of wealth
– Use registered taxis or ride apps — avoid hailing taxis on the street
– High altitudes can cause sickness — acclimate gradually and hydrate
– Stick to trusted guides in the Amazon and remote mountain treks

Cultural Etiquette

– Greet with a polite “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes”
– Always ask before photographing people, especially Indigenous communities
– In villages, modest dress and respect for local customs are appreciated
– Haggling is common in markets, but always friendly

Health & Environment

– Drink bottled or filtered water; avoid raw foods in remote areas
– Bring sunscreen and layers — UV rays are intense in high elevations
– Travel insurance is strongly advised for adventure activities

Where to Go Next – Pair Peru with These Destinations

Peru’s neighbors open up more culture, landscapes, and border-crossing options.

• Bolivia – Cross via Lake Titicaca to explore La Paz, Salar de Uyuni, and Andean culture.
• Ecuador – Flights from Lima to Quito or Guayaquil give access to the Galápagos or Andes.
• Chile – From Arequipa, reach northern Chile’s Atacama Desert with a short hop.
• Colombia – Direct flights to Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena make it easy to shift from ruins to rainforests.
• Brazil – Combine Peru’s Amazon with Brazil’s for a grand rainforest circuit.

Unlock More Travel Tips & Explore more guides:

• Bolivia Travel Guide
• Ecuador Travel Guide
• Colombia Travel Guide
• Chile Travel Guide
• Brazil Travel Guide

Final Planning Checklist for Peru

Use this action-focused checklist before departure to stay organized and stress-free.

• Confirm domestic flights, especially for Cusco, Amazon, and north-coast routes
• Reserve Machu Picchu entry and train tickets early — permits can sell out months ahead
• Download maps.me, Rome2Rio, and translation apps for offline use
• Check visa rules (most travelers get 90 days visa-free)
• Pack for layers: highland nights are cold, Amazon days are hot and humid
• Carry cash in soles for markets and small towns; ATMs are widespread in cities
• Book Colca Canyon or Inca Trail treks with reputable agencies
• Adjust to altitude gradually; drink coca tea and rest
• Learn basic Spanish phrases or download an offline translator
• Review health precautions, vaccines (yellow fever for Amazon), and bring repellent

Explore Peru with confidence using our trusted tips, local insights, and region-by-region planning tools.

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