PERU

Peru, a land of ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes, stretches from the Pacific coast across the majestic Andes to the Amazon rainforest. Home to the Inca Empire, its rich history and diverse geography offer an unparalleled adventure for every traveler.

Region: Western South America

Capital: Lima

Official Language: Spanish (Quechua and Aymara also have official status in certain regions)

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise increased caution due to crime and civil unrest. Petty theft is common, and isolated areas have higher risks.

A map of North and South America, with Peru highlighted in green.

Why Visit Peru?

Machu Picchu: The iconic Inca citadel, a UNESCO wonder.

Amazon Rainforest: Wildlife-rich lodges near Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado.

Cusco & Sacred Valley: Inca ruins, vibrant markets, and Andean culture.

A grand cathedral with a tall spire in the foreground, set against the backdrop of a large, conical volcano.

Lima’s Food Scene: World’s top culinary capital (ceviche, Nikkei cuisine).

Lake Titicaca: Floating Uros Islands and Taquile’s textiles.

Adventure Hub: Trekking (Inca Trail, Huayna Picchu), sandboarding (Huacachina).

A fluffy brown alpaca standing on a dry, grassy hillside with a vast landscape in the background.

Essential Trip Information

Check Peru’s official visa website for requirements based on your nationality. Many countries (e.g., U.S., Canada, EU) receive a 90-day visa-free entry.

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, or sufficient funds (US$50–100/day).

Tourist visas (if required) cost ~US$30–100; apply in advance at a Peruvian consulate.

Peru uses the Sol (PEN). Bills: 10–200 soles. Coins: 0.10–5 soles.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs offer better rates.
  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (BBVA, Interbank). Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) work in cities, but carry 50–100 soles (US$13–26) cash for rural areas.
  • Avoid: Street money changers (scams) and dynamic currency conversion (always pay in soles).

Spanish is official; Quechua is spoken in the Andes.

Helpful phrases: “Hola,” “Gracias,” “¿Cuánto cuesta?”

English is understood in tourist areas.

Generally safe, but:

  • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (Lima, Cusco).
  • Avoid unregistered taxis (use Uber or official apps).
  • Emergency number: 105 (police), 116 (tourist police).

Vaccinations: Yellow fever (Amazon regions), Hepatitis A, typhoid.

Altitude sickness: Acclimate in Cusco before hiking. Drink coca tea.

Tap water: Not safe to drink; buy bottled water.

Buses: Most common for long distances (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa).

Domestic flights: Affordable (Lima→Cusco: US$50–150).

Taxis: Negotiate fares or use apps (Uber, Beat).

Peru ranges from budget-friendly to mid-range, with luxury options in tourist hubs.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$10–25/night).

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$40–80/night).

  • Luxury: 5-star hotels (US$150+/night, e.g., Lima/Cusco).

Food

  • Quick eats: Street food (US$1–5), 3–7).

  • Casual dining: US$10–20/person.

  • Fine dining: US$30+/person (e.g., Lima’s Michelin-starred Central).

Drinks

  • Beer: US$1–3 (stores), 3–6 (bars).

  • Pisco sour: US$5–10.

Transportation

  • Buses: Long-distance (US$10–50, e.g., Lima→Cusco).

  • Taxis/Uber: Short rides (US$3–10 in cities).

  • Trains: Machu Picchu (US$50–200 round-trip).

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at local markets (e.g., San Pedro in Cusco).

  • Use collectivos (shared vans) for cheap intercity travel.

  • Book Machu Picchu tickets months ahead (limited daily entries).

Explore Peru

This iconic Inca citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a breathtaking testament to ancient engineering and spirituality. Perched high in the Andes Mountains in the Cusco Region, it offers stunning panoramic views and an unforgettable journey into Peru’s rich past.

The historical capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a vibrant city in the southeastern Andes. Its charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture built upon Inca foundations, and bustling markets make it a captivating hub for exploring the surrounding Andean wonders.

Nestled between Cusco and Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a fertile agricultural region dotted with picturesque villages, ancient Inca ruins, and breathtaking Andean scenery, offering a deeper insight into Inca life.

Peru’s bustling capital, located on the Pacific coast, is a culinary hotspot and a vibrant metropolis. From its historic center, a UNESCO site, to its modern Miraflores district and ancient pre-Inca pyramids, Lima offers a blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.

The highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca straddles the border of Peru and Bolivia, in the southeastern Andes. It is home to unique indigenous communities like the Uros, who live on floating reed islands, offering a fascinating cultural experience.

Known as the “White City” due to its stunning sillar (white volcanic stone) architecture, Arequipa is located in southern Peru and is surrounded by three impressive volcanoes. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its beautiful monasteries and vibrant plazas.

One of the deepest canyons in the world, the Colca Canyon is situated in southern Peru, northwest of Arequipa. It’s a prime spot for observing the majestic Andean condor in its natural habitat and experiencing traditional Andean village life.

These enigmatic geoglyphs, etched into the desert floor of the Nazca Province in southern Peru, are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best viewed from above by small plane, they depict various figures, from animals to geometric shapes, whose purpose remains a mystery.

Covering a significant portion of eastern Peru, the Peruvian Amazon is a biodiversity hotspot. Accessible from cities like Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, it offers incredible wildlife viewing, river excursions, and jungle adventures.

A unique desert oasis town located near the city of Ica in southwestern Peru, Huacachina is famous for its stunning lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. It’s a popular destination for sandboarding and dune buggy tours.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Lush, Green Landscapes
  • More authentic local vibe in some areas
  • Ideal for Amazon river cruises (higher water levels)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Heavy Rainfall
  • Muddy Trails (especially for treks like the Inca Trail)
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (certain hikes may be difficult or closed)
  • Some closures (Inca Trail typically closes in February for maintenance)
  • Coastal areas can be foggy and cooler

Key Regions:

  • Amazon Rainforest: River levels are higher, allowing deeper exploration by boat.
  • Coastal Cities (e.g., Lima): Still warm, but may experience garúa (coastal fog).
  • Huaraz (Andes): Trekking is challenging due to rain and potential landslides.
  • Arequipa & Colca Canyon: Still accessible, but expect rain and cloudy skies.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (transitioning)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (some local celebrations)
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Clear Skies (Autumn transition)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (especially April)
  • Muddy patches on trails may linger (early shoulder season)
  • Less vibrant green in the Andes (late shoulder season)

Key Regions:

  • Cusco & Sacred Valley: Excellent for exploring, with pleasant temperatures.
  • Machu Picchu: Fewer crowds than peak season, great for photography.
  • Lake Titicaca: Enjoyable conditions, fewer tourists on the islands.
  • Northern Beaches (e.g., Máncora): Good for surfing and relaxation before peak summer.
  • Mid-May – September (Dry Season in Andes/Highlands)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Semana Santa (Easter Week)

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A handshake or light hug is common. Say “Buenas” (hello).

Dress Code: Casual but modest in rural areas. Resort wear is fine at beaches.

Tipping:

  • Restaurants: 10% is customary (check if service charge is included).
  • Taxis: Round up the fare.

Bargaining: Acceptable in markets (e.g., Mola textiles), not in stores.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$10–30), 50–150), luxury (US$200+).

Food: Street food (US$2–5), local meal 8–15), fine dining (US$30+).

Transport: Buses (US$20–50), 50–150), trains (US$60–200).

Activities: Machu Picchu (US$50–150), 20–100).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$30–50 (hostels, street food, buses).

  • Mid-range: US$80–150 (hotels, tours, meals).

  • Luxury: US$200+ (boutique stays, private guides).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in cafes/hotels (slow in rural areas).

SIM Cards: Claro/Entel (US$5–10 for 1–3GB). Buy at airports or stores.

eSIMs: Supported (Airalo, Holafly).

Essential for: Altitude sickness, trekking, flight delays.

Coverage: Ensure it includes high-altitude hikes (e.g., Inca Trail).

Healthcare: Private clinics (e.g., Clinica Anglo-Americana in Lima) are pricey.

Tip: Acclimate 2–3 days in Cusco before hiking to avoid altitude sickness.

Peru offers everything from colonial mansions to Amazon lodges.

Luxury

  • Historic hotels: Belmond Hotel Monasterio (Cusco), Palacio Nazarenas.
  • Jungle: Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica (Puerto Maldonado).
  • Beach: Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort.

Mid-range

  • Boutique stays: Tierra Viva Hotels (multiple cities), Antigua Casona San Blas (Cusco).
  • Eco-lodges: Treehouse Lodge (Amazon), Gocta Natura Reserve (Chachapoyas).

Budget

  • Hostels: Wild Rover, Pariwana (Lima, Cusco) – ~US$10–25/night.
  • Guesthouses: Local hospedajes in Sacred Valley – ~US$20–40/night.

Unique Stays

  • Skylodge Adventure Suites: Transparent pods on a cliffside in Sacred Valley.
  • Community homestays: Lake Titicaca (US$20–30 with meals).

Tip: Book Machu Picchu accommodations well in advance (especially Aguas Calientes) during dry season.

Peru’s size demands a mix of transport options.

Flights:

  • Domestic airlines (LATAM, Sky Airline) connect Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and Iquitos (US$50–150 one-way).
  • Book early for peak-season discounts.

Buses:

  • Long-distance: Cruz del Sur (luxury), Oltursa (budget) for Lima-Cusco (US$25–50, 20+ hours).
  • Regional: Collectivos (shared vans) for short trips (e.g., Cusco to Sacred Valley).

Trains:

  • Inca Rail/Peru Rail: Scenic rides to Machu Picchu (US$60–200 one-way).
  • Taxis/Rideshares:
  • In cities: Use Uber or Cabify (safer than street taxis). Negotiate fares for short rides (US$3–10).

Car Rental:

  • Not recommended for beginners—chaotic traffic, poor rural roads.

Tip: Pack light—many buses/trains have strict luggage limits.

Handy Tips

Peru uses the Sol (PEN). Bills come in 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 soles; coins include 1, 2, and 5 soles, plus smaller céntimos (1, 5, 10, 20, 50).

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks (poor rates). Use ATMs (labeled “Global Net” or “BBVA”) or banks. US$100 bills are easiest to exchange (must be crisp, unmarked).

  • Using Cards: Cards (Visa/Mastercard) work in cities, but cash is king in markets, rural areas, and small vendors.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants: 10% is standard (check if “servicio” is included).

    • Tours: US$5–10/day for guides; 2–3 for drivers.

    • Porters/Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag or service.

Spanish is official; Quechua and Aymara are spoken in the Andes. Helpful phrases:

  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much?)

  • “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where’s the bathroom?)

  • “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please).
    Pro Tip: Learn basic Spanish—locals appreciate the effort. English is limited outside tourist areas.

Safe areas: Lima’s Miraflores/Barranco, Cusco’s historic center.

Caution: Pickpockets in crowded markets (e.g., Lima’s Mercado Central), solo hiking at altitude.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 105: Police.
  • 116: Medical emergencies.

220V/60Hz with Type A/C plugs (two flat pins or two round pins). Bring an adapter; converters rarely needed for phones/laptops.

Tap water is unsafe to drink. Buy bottled water (US$0.50–1 per liter) or use purification tablets. Restaurants serve “agua embotellada” (bottled).

Major closures on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day.

  • Mar/Apr: Holy Week (processions in Cusco).

  • 1 May: Labor Day.

  • 28–29 Jul: Independence Day (parades, fireworks).

  • 30 Aug: Santa Rosa de Lima.

  • 8 Oct: Battle of Angamos.

  • 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day.

  • 25 Dec: Christmas.
    Note: Museums/shops may close early on holidays.

Stores: 9:00–20:00 (malls open later; rural shops close for siesta).

Markets: Best early (e.g., San Pedro Market in Cusco opens at 6:00).

Pharmacies: “Boticas” (24-hour in cities).

Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in tangy lime juice, served with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers.

Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef, potatoes, tomatoes, and onions, a perfect blend of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine.

Aji de Gallina: A creamy, spicy chicken stew served with rice and boiled potatoes.

Causa Rellena: A layered potato dish filled with tuna, chicken, or avocado and topped with a spicy dressing.

Pachamanca: A traditional Andean dish of meat, potatoes, and corn cooked in an underground oven.

Tamales: Steamed corn dough filled with meat, olives, and spices.

Anticuchos: Grilled skewers of beef heart, marinated in a flavorful blend of spices.

Papa a la Huancaina: Boiled potatoes served with a creamy, cheese-based sauce.

Turrón de Doña Pepa: A traditional Peruvian dessert made with anise-flavored dough, syrup, and sprinkles.

Mazamorra Morada: A sweet purple corn pudding, often served with rice pudding.

Alcoholic:

  • Pisco Sour: Peru’s national cocktail made with Pisco, lemon juice, egg whites, and bitters.

  • Pisco: A grape brandy that is the base of many traditional drinks, including the Pisco Sour.

  • Chicha Morada: A sweet drink made from purple corn, often served chilled.

  • Inca Kola: A yellow, sweet soda that is uniquely popular in Peru.

  • Cusqueña: A premium beer brewed in the city of Cusco.

  • Cervecería Barbarian: A popular craft beer brand in Peru.

  • Macchu Pisco: A fruity and refreshing cocktail made with Pisco and tropical fruit juices.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Mate de Coca: A tea made from coca leaves, often consumed to combat altitude sickness.

  • Emoliente: A herbal drink often consumed in the morning, with a variety of herbs, barley, and sugar.

  • Chicha de Jora: A fermented corn drink that has been brewed by Andean cultures for centuries.

  • Lúcuma Smoothie: A smoothie made from the sweet and creamy lúcuma fruit, often mixed with milk.

  • Aguajina: A refreshing juice made from the aguaje fruit, common in the Amazon region.

Machu Picchu: An ancient Incan city set high in the Andes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Cusco: The former capital of the Inca Empire, where Incan and Spanish architecture coexist.

The Sacred Valley: A region filled with historical sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac, surrounded by stunning mountains.

Lake Titicaca: The world’s highest navigable lake, home to floating islands and ancient cultures.

Nazca Lines: Mysterious, ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, best viewed from the sky.

The Colca Canyon: One of the deepest canyons in the world, home to the majestic Andean condor.

Arequipa: A city known for its colonial architecture, including the Santa Catalina Monastery and the stunning Misti Volcano.

Iquitos: The gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, offering unique wildlife experiences and indigenous culture.

The Inca Trail: A historic hiking route that leads to Machu Picchu, passing through stunning landscapes and Inca ruins.

Puno: The city on the shores of Lake Titicaca, with its colorful festivals and traditional dance.

Free Museums: Visit the Museo de Oro in Lima to see gold artifacts from ancient Peru, or the Museo Larco for an in-depth look at pre-Columbian history.

Nightlife: Head to Barranco in Lima for vibrant nightlife, including live music, cocktail bars, and clubs.

Andean Folk Music: Experience traditional Peruvian music at a local bar or cultural center in Cusco.

Cultural Festivals: Peru hosts many cultural festivals, such as Inti Raymi, the Inca festival of the sun in Cusco.

Amazon Tours: Take a boat trip from Iquitos to explore the Peruvian Amazon and discover its diverse wildlife.

Surfing: Peru’s coastline is famous for its excellent surfing spots, particularly in Máncora and Punta Hermosa.

Hiking: Explore the Salkantay Trek, an alternative to the Inca Trail that offers stunning mountain scenery.

Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class in Lima or Cusco to learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche.

Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs of Aguas Calientes near Machu Picchu or in Baños Termales in the Sacred Valley.

Mountain Biking: The Sacred Valley offers incredible mountain biking opportunities, with trails that pass through ancient ruins and scenic landscapes.

La Casa de la Cerveza: A popular bar in Cusco offering a wide selection of local beers.

Pisco Bar: A trendy spot in Lima for enjoying Pisco cocktails, especially the classic Pisco Sour.

Canta Rana: A well-known dive bar in the Barranco district of Lima with great cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

The Dubliners: A lively pub in Lima where you can enjoy both Peruvian and international beers.

Sax Hostel Bar: A bar in Cusco with a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of cocktails and live music.

Ayahuasca: A funky bar in Lima with a mix of Peruvian and international cocktails, set in a beautifully restored colonial house.

Bistro 21: A sophisticated venue in Lima known for its fine wines and exclusive cocktails.

Bar 306: An upscale cocktail bar in Cusco, offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy setting.

Huaringas Bar: A Cusco bar specializing in local spirits and traditional cocktails.

El Dragon: A chic, modern nightclub in Lima that is popular for dancing to Latin beats until the early hours.