Peru is a fascinating destination filled with ancient ruins, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Travelers can see the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu and explore the country’s colonial cities. Peru’s diverse geography and culture offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure from the coastal town of Trujillo to the Amazon region.
In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of all things to do and see in Peru:
History of Peru
Peru has a long and rich history, beginning with the Norte Chico civilization in the pre-Columbian era. This ancient society, an example of advanced teamwork and organization, settled along the coast of Peru over 4,000 years ago. Its influence can be seen today in the architecture of many coastal villages.
In the centuries that followed, several distinct civilizations populated Peru’s mountain valleys and coastlines – Moche, Wari, Tiwanaku, and Chimu cultures. The Inca Empire rose to dominate much of western South America in the fifteenth century and was conquered by Spaniards led by Francisco Pizarro in 1532.
The Spaniards brought new religious ideas, their language, and some technology – all of which profoundly affected Peruvian culture. The destruction of Machu Picchu is one result that reflects this period as colonial administrators razed many pre-Colombian settlements to build European-style cities, including Lima (circa 1535).
Today Peru remains a cultural melting pot showing both results of its extensive history – from pre-Colombian ruins to Spanish colonial architecture within its bustling urban centers. A commitment to preserving its heritage alongside modern development has left visitors with plenty to explore when visiting Peru!
Geography
Located in western South America, Peru is a mountainous country stretching north to south along the Pacific Ocean. The country has diverse and varied terrain ranging from the coastal desert on the Pacific side to high mountainous areas, including the Andes mountain range. These mountains run north to south through the western part of the country and are home to some of Peru’s indigenous cultures and scenic lakes, volcanoes, and tropical forests. In addition to mountains and jungles, Peru also contains vast Amazonian plains in its east–home to various plants, animals, and human settlements.
At roughly 496,225 square miles, Peru is slightly larger than Alaska. The country is broken into five regions–Coastal Desert, Highlands (Andes mountains), Eastern Lowlands (Amazon basin), Southeast Region (titled Selva Alta y Selva Baja), and Northern Lowlands–with several distinct climate zones due to its varied altitude changes in such a short distance. As a result, the temperatures throughout Peru range greatly depending on elevation. Although at the same time, Lima gets year-round warmth due to its coastal climate influence, Cusco may contend with frosting during certain months, especially at night.
The Peruvian population totals around 31 million people, which includes a mix of Mestizos (mixed European/Native-American descent) comprising 47% percent of citizens followed by Natives at 37%, Europeans / Africans at 15%, Pardos (African/Native American mix) at 1% as well as an overseas Chinese population making up 0.2%. Spanish is spoken fluently by 84% of all citizens. At the same time, other native languages include Aymara and Quechua, commonly spoken in highland areas, with lesser utilized languages such as Asháninka or Ashaninca reserved for particular regions.
Climate
Peru typically has two distinct seasons: a dry season, called summer, and a wet season, commonly referred to as winter.
In the capital city (Lima), these seasons are mostly confined to the coastal region. However, other regions of Peru tend to experience their unique climates.
- Summer in Peru generally runs from December through March and can be hot and dry in most parts of the country. While temperatures may vary depending on location, coastal cities tend to see temperatures between 17-25 degrees celsius (63-77F). During this time of year, there is little rain due to the low air pressure created by cold currents, which dominate much of Peru’s coast.
- Winter in Peru runs from April through November and tends to bring higher humidity levels and irregular rainfalls. During this period, heavy rains flood parts of Peru’s lowlands while other areas don’t receive significant precipitation. Temperatures also vary greatly during this season, but most coastal cities usually stay between 13-22 degrees celsius (54-71F).
The temperature contrast between Lima’s summer and winter seasons is often seen as representative of much of the Peruvian coast. Meanwhile, inland regions such as the jungle or Andean Mountains experiences variations that can greatly range depending on altitude and other factors such as cloud cover or humidity levels throughout each season.
Places to Visit
Peru is a beautiful country with lots of interesting places to visit. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the colorful city of Lima, there’s something for everyone. Peru has everything if you’re looking for culture, history, or outdoor adventure.
This guide will highlight the best places to visit in Peru and give you some tips to make the most out of your trip:
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, located in Peru’s Cusco region, is one of South America’s most visited archaeological sites. This historic site is located at an altitude of 2,400 meters (7,875 feet) above sea level and was constructed around 1450 by the Inca Empire. The intriguing feature that captures the imagination of visitors is its seemingly impossible location on the edge of a mountain peak. It appears to be an incredible feat of engineering and artistry combined.
Machu Picchu offers visitors an opportunity to explore its iconic terraces, temples, stone staircases, and impressive views. You can traverse the Incan Trail for four or five days or take advantage of a two-hour hike from nearby Aguas Calientes to reach Machu Picchu’s gate entrance. Once there, you can relish its splendor, including several buildings, an astronomical observatory known as Intihuatana, food storage structures called qolqas, and living quarters belonging to historical figures such as Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui (1438–1472).
It is important to note that Machu Picchu attracts hundreds of thousands each year but, due to its size, has limited visitation slots, so it’s wise to book your visit early, or you may not make it! In addition, being properly prepared for altitude sickness before making your way up can also help prevent you from having any bad experiences during your visit. All this in mind, however, many walk away from Machu Picchu, saying that it was worth every obstacle just for the chance to experience its captivating beauty up close.
Cusco
Cusco is one of Peru’s most popular tourist destinations and a must-see on any trip to this country. Located in the southeastern region of Peru, this ancient city was originally the capital of the Incan Empire and is still home to many impressive archaeological sites. Cusco offers visitors an incredible blend of ancient architecture, lush green landscapes, modern amenities, and bustling city life.
Plenty of activities can be enjoyed in Cusco and its environs. Depending on your interests, you could explore the vibrant nightlife or relax at some stunning outdoor cafes. During the day, you could participate in outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling through nearby mountains, explore archaeological sites like Machu Picchu or visit ornate churches like Santa Catalina or San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas. In addition, touring colonial houses and traditional markets is highly recommended as it offers visitors a glimpse into local culture and heritage.
Other attractions that should be included when visiting Cusco include:
- Plaza de Armas
- Catacombs beneath San Cristobal Church
- Legendary sacred sites like Sacsayhuaman fortresses and Q’enko Amphitheater
- Lively street festivals celebrating important religious dates like Inti Raymi (Festival of Sun)
Whether traveling solo or with family, tourists can be sure that their time in Cusco will offer memorable experiences for all ages!
Lima
Lima, the capital city of Peru, is often referred to as the City of Kings. With its grand colonial architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, it is easy to see why. This modern city sits alongside pre-Inca ruins, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore both sides of Peru’s history.
Lima’s neighborhoods have something to offer everyone, from laid-back local markets to luxury shopping malls. You can explore the city center in the Plaza de Armas or stop in Miraflores for a traditional Peruvian meal at one of Lima’s renowned restaurants. If you want something different, head to Barranco for bohemian flair and fashionable boutiques.
No trip to Lima would be complete without visiting its unique museums. Discover the incredible diversity of Peruvian art at MATE Museo Mario Testino or experience Incan culture firsthand at Museo Larco. Visiting Lima’s ancient churches is also a must-do; two stunning examples include Iglesia de San Francisco and Iglesia La Merced.
For beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, be sure to take a ride along Paseo El Olivar or simply admire the colonial architecture while walking around Lima Centro Historic District and stroll by Parque Kennedy – known as the “Love Park” – home to numerous cafes and bars where locals go out for drinks and music during summer months or soak up some warm sunshine all year round. Anytime’s a great time for Peru’s capital!
Transportation
When traveling to Peru, it is important to understand the various transportation options available. Depending on your budget and the time available, there are various ways you can get around Peru. There are multiple options for getting to your destination, from public buses and taxis to airplanes and trains.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the different transportation options available in Peru and their associated costs and provide tips for getting around:
- Public buses
- Taxis
- Airplanes
- Trains
Air
In Peru, air travel is the most efficient means of traveling between cities, with a well-developed internal aviation network that connects all major urban areas. In addition, most of the major carriers that fly within Peru are based in Lima, providing many intra-country routes.
Due to its immense size and varied terrain, flights are often the only practical way to cover large distances. For example, flying from Lima to Cusco in the Andes mountains is a popular route for travelers looking to visit Machu Picchu and other locations in the Sacred Valley.
In recent years, low-cost flights have become very popular in Peru, significantly reducing ticket prices for many domestic routes and boosting air travel through competitive pricing. However, like in other parts of Latin America, booking ahead is essential as prices increase as flights fill up nearer to departure time. Seasonality also plays an important role in fares – ticket prices tend to increase during peak holidays like July and August.
Train
Trains are a popular mode of transport for tourists wanting to travel in Peru and get around the country. Many of Peru’s overnight trains are considered a safe, convenient, and affordable way to cover larger distances. There are two international train connections to Ecuador, an overnight train from Cusco to Puno, a chicano train departing from Huancayo to Machu Picchu, and two scenic services that pass through Andean villages in Southern Peru: The Hiram Bingham (Luxury train) and the Inka Express (business class).
Trains run through some of the most breathtaking parts of Peru, including the Sacred Valley of the Incas – where it passes along rivers, lush green terraces leading up on mountainsides, valleys that seem to go forever, snow peaked mountains, and local towns situated in lovely settings. The atmosphere is very tranquil, with a few hills here and there for interesting views during your journey.
When traveling on certain overnight trains, you can choose between economy sleeper (shared four-bed compartments), first-class sleeper (private occupancy), and restaurant car service available depending on each line’s route options. In addition, some rail services offer air-conditioned cabins with entertainment systems or rail personnel who provide customized tours while they explain Peruvian history during journeys.
Bus
Public buses are commonly used by local people throughout Peru and can be a great way to experience the culture of this vibrant country. However, schedules may not always be reliable, roads may not always be in good condition, and distances can be long. While some luxurious options are available for long-distance routes, safety is the biggest concern when taking a bus in Peru.
There are two main types of buses:
- Local buses: These buses travel short distances within cities or neighboring towns. They often have fixed rates, but fares may not be marked; checking with other passengers or asking before getting on is best. Buses usually have enough space for luggage, but space can quickly get limited as more and more people get on board.
- Intercity buses: Buses that travel between cities offer several levels of quality and accommodate different budgets, from basic regional buses to luxury “comfort” coaches, complete with heaters, air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, snacks, and drinks. While the latter tend to cost significantly more than regular regional routes and even national first-class services – popular ones fill up fast, so it’s best to book tickets in advance if possible.
Long-distance coaches also offer several tiers of comfort ranging from standard seated coaches to fully reclining seats similar to those found on airplanes – though some international companies such as Cruz del Sur also offer sleeper coaches with reclining beds for overnight journeys!
Accommodation
One of the main considerations when planning a trip to Peru is accommodation. A wide range of lodging is available, from five-star hotels to budget hostels. So whether you are looking for a luxury stay or an economical option, there is something to suit every budget and taste.
No matter where you stay in Peru, you can be sure of warm hospitality and great service.
Hotels
Whether you’re looking for luxury or a more budget-friendly bed for the night, Peru’s abundance of hotels has something for every traveler. In addition, you’ll find urban and beachfront resorts and national parks with secluded cabins and quiet places to stay in the countryside. With so much to offer, Peru has developed a reputation for being one of Latin America’s best treks.
When it comes to hotels, they generally fall into three categories – economy, mid-range, and luxury. Each can be found throughout the country in various sizes and forms, such as luxury villas or beach huts. Many are centered around main tourist hubs such as Cusco and Lima, where beautiful colonial buildings teeming with greenery have been turned into quaint boutique hotels or larger-scale business-oriented locations that offer all your home comforts (such as Wi-Fi) and excellent restaurants serving some delicious Peruvian dishes.
Economy hotels are often located outside central destinations but can provide far better value than more expensive accommodations. Although they come with minimal amenities, they are usually clean, comfortable, and popular among younger travelers seeking to stretch their budget slightly further when touring around Peru. Just remember that if you’re after something a bit more luxurious than your standard, pay close attention to the facilities available at each hotel before making a reservation!
Mid-range units in moderate cities such as Arequipa or Trujillo can compete favorably with luxury options in other parts of South America while still providing fantastic service and convenience of stay due to great transport links surrounding many locations near the larger tourist draws throughout Peru – be sure to check out these opportunities when you’re there!
Finally, if it’s a truly indulgent experience you desire during your break from home – why not splurge on one of the many upscale resorts that Peru has become known for? From boutique beach getaways complete with private pools and upmarket restaurant choices alongside alluring spa treatments – to family-size vacation solutions that rely on an extensive activities list alongside private excursions organized within your destination – there are plenty of experiences (at any budget) just waiting for those potential visitors looking for something special during their time exploring this majestic nation!
Hostels
Hostels are a great budget-friendly accommodation option in Peru. They offer dorm-style rooms with shared bathrooms, kitchen facilities, and a hostel bar and restaurant area to socialize with other travelers. Many hostels also offer budget-friendly day trips to the ruins of Machu Pichu and the Sacred Valley, plus special weekend excursions for those with more time. Hostels usually range from $9 – 15 (per night), depending on the activity and amenities included in your stay.
Generally speaking, hostels can be found in most major cities. However, it is always best to check with hostel staff before booking a stay, as availability can vary due to seasonal crowds or festival dates. Furthermore, many hostels are located close to popular tourist attractions or nearby public transport links for those travelers looking for easy access to local beaches or mountain villages.
Airbnb
Airbnb is one of the most popular options for accommodation in Peru. It allows travelers from all walks of life to stay in an affordable, serviced apartment or home (often with a private host). The selection of properties varies greatly in size and price, so there’s something to suit everyone. It also offers a great opportunity to make meaningful connections with local people, as many hosts want to make a lasting impression on their guests.
If you book an Airbnb property in Peru, you must take the necessary precautions. Make sure you read each host’s reviews thoroughly and ensure they have at least 4.5 stars before making your booking. You should also ensure that the property has amenities like Wi-Fi and air-conditioning if these are important to you. Remember that some accommodations may not offer these services due to Peru’s remote geography, so double-check this before booking! Finally, always communicate with your host about any specific needs or concerns before your arrival by messaging them through the Airbnb platform – this will help ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.
Food and Drink
Peru’s gastronomy is one of the country’s biggest draws for tourists. Peruvian cuisine is often recognized for its unique flavors, and its ingredients stem from its diverse population, geography, and climate. With influences from Spanish, Andean, African, and Asian cuisine, Peru’s dishes often feature a variety of spices, sauces, and flavor combinations.
Here, we’ll cover the many delicious food and drink offerings Peru has to offer:
Traditional Cuisine
Peru is renowned for its traditional cuisine, rarity, and unique flavors and styles. Many aspects of the country’s food culture have evolved from early Inca cuisine.
The main staples of Peruvian food include potatoes, corn, beans, and various fruits and vegetables. Beef, pork, and poultry are also important to Peruvian dishes, and fish from the Pacific coast has been a major component in local recipes since Incan times. Peru is especially known for its seafood ceviches: fish cured in citrus juice, onions, garlic, and cilantro, served cold as a starter or salad.
There is also an abundance of typical plates made from beef or chicken, such as carapulcra (dried potatoes cooked in a spicy sauce), rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper), lomo saltado (strips of beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and french fries) or tacu tacu (leftovers rice mixed with boiled beans). In addition, there are endless accompanied sauces for these dishes, such as yellow chili pepper sauce–aji amarillo–or huancaina sauce made with cheese and boiled eggs, among other ingredients.
Additionally, desserts may be served after the meal, including carob pudding–mazamorra morada–or simple slices of tropical fruits like mango or papaya plus ice cream for more daring palates icons like churros peruanos that bring both elaborate textures from different parts of the country. Finally, chicha morada is popular all over Peru – it’s a sweet drink made out of purple corn boiled with pineapple peelings, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and lime juice, among other spices; it’s possible to find variations such as those made with chirimoya instead.
Local Markets
When you travel to Peru, one of the best ways to get a taste of local culture is to visit the markets – from small street-side stands to sprawling indoor bazaars. Here you can find ingredients, fresh produce, and food items unique to Peru. Large cities tend to have bigger and more varied markets, while smaller towns are mostly known for their specialty goods. Here’s an overview of some of the typical goods found in Peruvian markets:
Food
In any market, you can find freshly picked fruits and vegetables like aji Amarillo (a yellow chili pepper), camu-camu (a tart red berry), plantains, mangos, and lima beans, among many others. You may also come across vendors selling hot dishes featuring ceviche (fish or seafood marinated in citrus juice) or carapulcra (a dehydrated potato stew usually served with pork or beef). You can also easily find staples such as quinoa, pasta, rice, and corn. Downtown markets are often heaven for those seeking traditional crafts like colorful blankets or clothes made from alpaca wool.
Drinks
When it comes to drinks in Peru, expect a wide variety – aside from the expected selection of soft drinks, there’s Coca tea – made from steeping the leaves of coca plants – chicha morada (purple corn juice spiced with cinnamon and other herbs) and Incan Kola filled with “mysterious” ingredients ranging from lemon verbena extract to tonka beans! If cold outside, do not miss out on trying some Colombian hot chocolate prepared with packages full of incredibly spicy South American spices!
Street Food
When traveling to Peru, street food should be at the top of your list. From the plantain soup served in the southern region of Arequipa to anticuchos (grilled beef heart) – a dish that has been a staple for centuries, not to mention all the fun snacks like churros, ceviche, and tamales. The street food in Peru is delicious, and it’s a great way to get familiar with traditional dishes.
Though the street food can vary depending on the city, you’re visiting, and what season it is, some staples can be found throughout Peru. Here are just a few:
- Chicharron: Fried pork popularly served with boiled sweet potatoes on the side and enjoyed as an afternoon snack or meal.
- Aji de Gallina: Shredded chicken in a creamy sauce made with ground nuts, cream cheese, and yellow pepper.
- Ceviche: Freshly caught fish marinated in citrus juice with onion, chili peppers, and fresh herbs (leche de tigre).
- Lomo Saltado: Strips of beef sautéed with tomatoes and onions dipped into soy sauce served beside french fries or white rice.
- Humitas: A savory corn pudding typically served inside corn husks for added flavor.
No matter where you’re headed in Peru, street food offers an authentic way to get acquainted with local cuisine at affordable prices that won’t break your travel budget!
Safety
Safety is a common concern when traveling to Peru. While Peru is generally considered safe for travelers, it is still important to use caution.
In this section of the Peru travel guide, we will look at everything you need to know to stay safe while exploring this beautiful country. We will cover topics such as:
- Crime
- Terrorism
- Scams
- Other security concerns
Local Laws
When visiting Peru, visitors must abide by the local laws and regulations of the country. Therefore, it is important to research before your trip, as certain behaviors may be subject to severe criminal penalties.
Certain activities like drug trafficking, bribery, or other forms of corruption are considered illegal and may be punished with jail time, considerable fines, and deportation back to your home country. In addition, vandalism, weapons possession, organized crime involvement, or child sex offenses are serious offenses prohibited by local laws.
It is important to remember Peru’s working hours: offices usually operate on weekdays between 8 a.m.-6 p.m., while shops tend to open later (10 a.m.-11 p.m.). Shops close for lunch from 12 p.m.-3 p.m., and most businesses remain closed on Sundays. The public transportation system, such as buses and taxis, runs from 5 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday – Sunday, with 15-minute intervals between each service departure. Banks in Lima remain open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, while some stay open on Saturdays until 1 p.m.
Before engaging in any activities while traveling in Peru, ensure you are familiar with all local laws and regulations, then act accordingly. Doing so will ensure a more pleasant experience by avoiding unwanted attention or potential legal ramifications due to ignorance of the rules of the land.
Travel Insurance
Most travelers to Peru will either purchase travel insurance or get coverage from an existing policy from their health insurance provider. Engaging in outdoor activities such as mountain climbing, trekking, rafting, and adventure sports is especially important. Make sure to read the policy details carefully to know what is covered.
Travel insurance covers medical evacuation costs, medical-related treatments abroad, and replacing lost or stolen items such as camera equipment and other personal belongings. Some policies also provide trip cancellation coverage if you cannot go on your planned vacation due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., serious illness or injury).
Most policies offer varying levels of coverage, so it’s important to select one that meets your needs and is suited to your budget. Taking out insurance with a company based in Peru offers the added benefit of contacting them directly in case of an emergency rather than waiting for assistance from your home country.
Emergency Contacts
In the event of an emergency, while traveling in Peru, the following contact information will help you get the assistance you need. It is important to be aware that Peru is a Spanish-speaking country, and English may not be widely spoken. Therefore, individuals must familiarize themselves with key Spanish phrases or have a handy translation app to communicate their needs effectively.
Emergency Contacts
- Countrywide Emergency Line: 105
- Police: 105 (countrywide)
- Fire Dept.: 116
- Medical Emergencies: 128 (countrywide)
- U.S. Embassy Lima: (+51 1) 618 2000
- Lima Tourist Police: (+51 1) 203 7300