Explore PERU

Peru travel guide

Peru was the first stop on my South America backpacking trip, and it quickly won me over with its culture and stunning landscapes. From Machu Picchu to Rainbow Mountain and the Andes, this Peru travel guide covers some of the country’s most beautiful places.

From Lima Peru to the World's Highest Navigable Lake

Things to know before you travel to Peru

  • Language: Spanish and Quechua are the two official languages.
  • Currency: The Peruvian Pesos (PEN) is the official currency in Peru. Major cities have ATMs available, but I recommend carrying some cash when visiting rural areas.
  • Visas: If you hold a passport from the U.S., Canada or EU, you don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days. But, check the official government website for the latest entry requirements.
  • Time Zones: Peru operates on Peru Time and there is no daylight saving time.
  • Travel Insurance: Make sure you have a travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents and trip cancellations. I used TrueTraveller but it’s only available to EU residents.
  • Mobile: You can buy a local SIM card as soon as you arrive in Peru.
  • Plugs: Peru uses type A and C standard plug types. I recommend buying a universal adapter if visiting from abroad.
  • Transportation: Peru is large, and taking an internal flight is the quickest way to save time on your South America itinerary. But, the cheaper option is to use local (overnight) buses.
  • Accommodation: If you’re on a backpacking trip through South America, the most popular option is to stay at hostels and guesthouses. But, if you prefer more comfort, you can look into hotels and boutique stays.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory but if you enjoyed the tour, consider tipping your guides and drivers.
  • Must-try food: Peru’s most iconic dish is the ceviche, followed by lomo saltado. If you are adventurous and have a strong stomach, you can also try the Peruvian street food.
South America: Peru Travel Blog Guide to Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and hiking adventures

The Best Time to Visit Peru

Since Peru is a vast and diverse country, the best time to visit depends on the areas you plan to explore. In general, the best time to visit Peru is between May and September, which corresponds to the dry season.

The best time to visit the Amazon is between April and October. This is to avoid flooding, which can make some areas inaccessible.

For those visiting the coastal areas, such as Lima, Paracas and Nazca, the months from December to April are the most favorable. In fact, during the rest of the year, the weather tends to be cooler and foggy.

Boy and girl sitting in front of of Machu Picchu ruins in Peru

Peru Travel Guide: Best places to visit

  • Machu Picchu: Breathtaking archeological site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Machu Picchu should definitely be on your Peru travel guide! To reach Machu Picchu you can either take a train from Cusco or embark on a multi-day trek, such as the Inca or Salkantay Trail.
  • Cusco: Former capital of the Inca Empire and getaway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
  • Sacred Valley: Key area during the Incan Empire due to its fertile soil and agriculture. It sits between Cusco and Machu Picchu, which makes it easy to explore. Also, some of the main highlights in the valley are Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Moray and Chinchero.
  • Lake Titicaca: On the border between Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world, at over 3,800 m (12,500 ft). Explore its islands to learn about Quechua culture while enjoying breathtaking lake views.
  • Arequipa: Peru’s second largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arequipa is known as the “White City” due to the use of white volcanic stone in its colonial buildings. For an adventure, hike down Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.
  • Amazon Rainforest: The main getaways to Peru’s Amazon rainforest are Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. These are located in the eastern part of the country. You can experience anything from jungle lodges to wildlife and river exploration.
  • Huaraz: Located north of Lima, Huaraz is nicknamed the hiking capital of Peru, due to its mountain scenery. It is the getaway to the Cordillera Huayhuash, one of the highest mountain ranges in the world.

Why Should You Travel To Peru?

Peru is one of my favorite countries in the world. Beyond the world-famous Machu Picchu, Peru has some of the most stunning landscapes and wildlife. Also, compared to other South American destinations, such as Chile, Peru is more affordable in terms of food, accommodation and activities.

Top Destinations Based on Your Interests

Peru has a large variety of activities to offer based on where you want to go. In this Peru travel guide, I’ve listed the best places to visit based on your interests.

  • Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: are the best multi-day treks from Cusco. You hike surrounded by snow-peaked mountains and trek through tropical forests to finally reach the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.
  • Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Can be done as a day trip from Cusco to experience the natural beauty of this colorful mountain. If you want to see it as part of a multi-day trek, you can also opt for the Ausangate trek.
  • Colca Canyon: Starting from Arequipa, you can trek into one of the deepest canyons in the world. Along the way, you’ll spot soaring condors, and even spend the night at an oasis.
  • Cordillera Huayhuash: My favorite trek in Peru and South America so far. It’s a multi-day high-altitude trek around some of the tallest peaks in Peru. I highly recommend it as part of your Peru travel guide if you love mountains and the outdoors.
  • Arequipa: Due to its vicinity to the volcanoes, the soil around the valley of Arequipa is particularly fertile and excellent for wine production.
  • Ica: If you’re looking to try Peru’s traditional drink, Pisco, visit Bodega Tacama or Bodega El Catador. While Pisco isn’t wine, a tasting tour is definitely worth it.
  • Cusco: Beautiful blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. As the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is rich in history and culture. In this Peru travel guide, I recommend going on either a free walking tour or guided tour. This is the best way to get local insights of the city.
  • Arequipa: Known for its elegance and colonial architecture, Arequipa stands out with its white volcanic rock buildings, earning it the nickname “The White City.” Compared to Cusco, you’ll immediately notice the difference in the building colors.
  • Lima: As the capital of Per, Lima has some of the best restaurants in the country. Some of the more trendy districts are Barranco and Miraflores.
  • Cusco: Has a more laid-back atmosphere to Lima but it still has some excellent nightlife, local markets, a variety of cafes and restaurants.
  • Arequipa: Here I had one of the best meals of my entire trip to South America at Zig Zag. If you’re in Arequipa also make sure to try the Chicha de guiñapo, absolutely delicious! 

Note: These scenic drives rely only on public transportation, such as buses or mini buses.

  • Cusco to Puno: This route offers spectacular views of high-altitude mountains and picturesque villages, leading all the way to lake Titicaca.
  • Lima to Paracas: Get a seat on the right isle of the bus and enjoy the views of the desert coastline and ocean.
  • Arequipa to Colca Canyon: Since you’re surrounded by the Andes, the landscape around you is magical. Additionally, you cross local towns and stop at one of the best viewpoints to spot condors in Colca Canyon.
  • Cusco to Sacred Valley: The valley is rich with unique views, mountains and architectural buildings, such as in Ollantaytambo and Chinchero.
  • Tambopata and Puerto Maldonado: Are some of the best places for wildlife lovers, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. If you’re lucky, you can spot jaguars, monkeys and many other animals. One of the best ways to explore the jungle is by staying at one of the eco-lodges and taking a riverboat tour.
  • Paracas and Ballestas Islands: Take a boat tour to spot sea lions, penguins and a large variety of bird species. This area is so rich on marine life that you’ll struggle to keep your eyes glued to just one place.
Peru Travel Guide Blog in South America
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Good To Know

If you’re traveling to the Amazon, consult your doctor to receive information on which vaccinations you should receive. Also, note that many places in Peru are at high altitudes (over 3,000 m, or 10,000 ft). So, give yourself enough time to acclimatize (usually at least two days). Also have medication (such as Diamox) on hand in case you feel sick.

Read All My Posts In This Peru Travel Guide