BackAncient cultures, breathtaking biodiversity and world-famous food.
Put simply, Peru is a fantastic destination for those who love outdoor adventures, epic scenery, and cultural immersion. In this immensely diverse setting, opportunities are endless. Trek on ancient pathways toward the towering citadel of Machu Picchu, a place where natural beauty and the genius of humanity combine. Delve deep into the Amazon, where colorful macaws and jaguars dwell. Camp beneath the stars in undiscovered spots in the valley. It is hard not to have an active time in Peru, yet our fantastic beach destinations offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate after an action-packed vacation
Here, in our comprehensive Peru travel guide, we discuss where to go, when to visit, what to see and do, as well as practical travel information for this adventure destination:
Introduction to Peru
Traveling through Peru takes you through some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. The sun-scorched shores of the Pacific are home to some of the world’s greatest waves. The cloud forests conceal remains of ancient kingdoms.
High Andean peaks cascade down into the planet’s deepest canyons. This is the rumored birthplace of the Amazon River and home to the world’s highest navigable lake, sitting more than 13,000 feet above sea level.
Peru is also one of the most geographically and culturally diverse countries in Latin America. Bordering Ecuador, Brazil, and Bolivia, Peru is the meeting place of different cultures and ecosystems. While 60% of the country is occupied by the impenetrable Amazon Rainforest, an ancient system of networks and paved trails remains around the basin and the Andes. This was the home turf of South America's largest ancient empire, the Incas. It has been trekked and explored for centuries.
Places to Visit in Peru
All our trips to Peru begin with a flight into the capital, Lima. From here, the journey is entirely up to you, but most travelers factor in an essential visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu and dedicate a few days to the colorful capital city of the Inca Empire, Cusco. We love the Peruvian Amazonia because its forests are among the most pristine in the world. Here are our destinations:
1.) Lima
2.) Cusco & the Sacred Valley
3.) Arequipa
4.) Colca Canyon
5.) Puno & Lake Titicaca
6.) The Amazon
7.) Ica
8.) Chachapoyas
Things To Do in Peru
It's impossible to run out of things to do in Peru. Famous for its trekking routes etched into the country's landscape, the remains of ancient civilizations, and unique natural settings, Peru is an outdoor enthusiast's dream come true. Here are our top 10 things to do in Peru:
1. Fly over the Nazca lines
Get a birds-eye view of the world's most mysterious signs in the sand. No one knows how or why the Nazca Lines were drawn. These ancient geoglyphs were created by Peru's civilisations over 2,000 years ago. Spanning over a 500 km squared radius the different depictions of animals, figures and geometric designs are fantastically vast and a mystery still today. Get a bird’s-eye view of the world's most mysterious signs in the sand. No one knows how or why the Nazca Lines were drawn. These ancient geoglyphs were created by Peru's civilizations over 2,000 years ago. Spanning a vast stretch of desert, the different depictions of animals, figures, and geometric designs remain an incredible mystery to this day
Image: The Hummingbird
2. Watch humpback whales in Máncora
Right on the northern coastline of Peru, Máncora is a fantastic destination for kicking back, soaking up the sun, and letting the ocean air do its thing. From July through early November, humpback whales arrive from Antarctica to mate and give birth to their calves. In Máncora, there's an 80% chance of viewing these spectacular mammals.
Image: Humpback Whale near Máncora
8.) White water rafting on the River Chili
Just a 20 minute drive out of Arequipa there are epic rapids on the Rió Chili. If you're planning a visit to Peru between April and November then take to the white-water for some rafting suitable for all ages and skillsets. These are Class 2 - 4 rapids making it a fantastic day out with the family. Just a 20-minute drive outside Arequipa, there are epic rapids on the Río Chili. If you're planning a visit to Peru between April and November, then take to the white water for a rafting experience suitable for all ages and skill levels. These are Class 2-4 rapids, making it a fantastic day out for families.
Image: Rafting in the Colca Canyon
4. Taste the flavours of Arequipa's picanterías
Arequipa also has an amazing gastronomic and culinary history dating back to the 16th century. Experiencing the city's famous picanterías is a must. Try unique flavors in colorful dishes, and learn how to make them yourself, guided by our local specialist chefs.
Image: Markets of Arequipa
5. Track condors in the Colca Canyon
The Andean Condor was once on the brink of extinction. Today, however, a journey into the valleys surrounding the Colca Canyon offers the opportunity to view the world's largest bird in flight. Rise at the crack of dawn to see these magnificent creatures soaring overhead.
Image: Andean Condor at the Condor Cross in the Colca Valley
6.) Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
This is what everyone talks about. The iconic Inca Trail is a four-day trek through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. This is one of Peru's busiest treks, and to hike to the crumbling citadel along these ancient pathways, visitors need to book well in advance to secure a spot.
Image: View of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu
7. Safari in Tambopata National Park, the Amazon
Tambopata Research Center is our most remote lodge, situated in the middle of the pristine rainforest of the national park. After a stop in the buffer zone of the protected sector of the Amazon, travel a few hours further to become entirely immersed in the wildlife of the wilderness amongst jaguars, macaws, and spider monkeys.
Image: Jaguar in Tambopata National Reserve
8. Star-gazing on Lake Titicaca
Puno’s high-altitude setting creates exceptional stargazing conditions and some of the clearest night skies in the world. Lake Titicaca is an ideal place for astronomical observation, so step outside and locate constellations such as the Wawarara Hawira alongside the Milky Way.
Image: Stars above Titilaka Lodge.
9. Track Pink River Dolphins near Iquitos
Peru's northern Amazon is particularly exciting as the river basin is home to spectacular mammals such as giant river otters and pink dolphins. Aboard a houseboat or guided excursion, catch a glimpse of these truly unique animals in action.
Image: Pink River Dolphin tracking from Treehouse Lodge
10.) Trek an alternative route through the Sacred Valley
Our alternatives to the Inca Trail are a fantastic off-the-beaten-path option for those who want to discover the secrets of the Sacred Valley.
Image: Trek to the ancient ruins of Choquequirao
Best Times to Visit Peru
Below, we'll break it down for you and give you the pros and cons of each season.
High Season: June - September
| Pros | Things to Consider |
| Fantastically clear weather and warm temperatures in the Sacred Valley | School vacations bring larger crowds to trekking routes in the Sacred Valley and around Machu Picchu |
| Excellent accessibility to walking trails and safaris in the South Amazon | Hotels, guides and permits often book out well in advance making rates generally higher throughout Peru |
| Festivals and cultural celebrations take place throughout the dry season, including Inti Raymi | Lima is typically immersed in the thick winter garúa fog |
Shoulder Seasons: October - December & March - May
-
Pros Things to Consider Fewer crowds create more intimate experiences at major attractions in the Sacred Valley Weather patterns are less predictable than during the dry season March through May follows the annual rains, leaving valleys green, lush and teeming with wildlife Scattered rain showers are more common in the Andes and Sacred Valley Better rates than the high season while still offering favorable travel conditions Some trekking routes may become muddier or more challenging after rainfall Excellent time for photography with dramatic landscapes and clearer light
Low Season: January - February
| Pros | Things to Consider |
| The waves on Peru’s North Coast are at their best during this time of year |
The Inca Trail closes throughout February for maintenance |
| February brings Carnival celebrations and vibrant festivities across Peru |
Heavy rainfall can make many trekking routes in the Sacred Valley inaccessible |
| Iquitos experiences high water levels and frequent rain, bringing wildlife closer to the treetop canopies and creating unique Amazon experiences |
Weather disruptions may occasionally impact transportation and excursions |
| Some regions experience fewer international visitors and lower rates |
Alternative trekking routes are often recommended instead of classic high-altitude trails |
Peru's Top Stays
Hotel B, Lima
Hotel B is a luxury stay in Lima's bohemian district, Barranco. It is a beautifully converted republican mansion with a modern art collection on site.
CIRQA, Arequipa
A restored 16th-century parador and monastery, CIRQA is a new Relais & Châteaux property neighboring Arequipa's top destinations. With a plunge pool, a spa, and a rooftop terrace, this is a sanctuary of sustainable indulgence.
Amantica Lodge, Lake Titicaca
Amantica Lodge is a private villa on Amanti Island. This is perfect for travelers looking for complete seclusion and sheer luxury right on the shores of the expansive lake.
Palacio Nazarenas, Cusco
Home to Cusco's first outdoor swimming pool, this converted palace is a Belmond property surrounded by traditional cloistered courtyards. Immersed in the stunning city of Cusco, this is a perfect base for exploring and relaxing.
Tambopata Research Centre, Amazon
Our most remote lodge in Peru, Tambopata, takes visitors on a journey into the intrepid Amazon. This windowless residence is where adventure meets luxury. Stay with active scientists and conservationists, learn the ways of the jungle, and follow the trails of the world's most renowned creatures.
Itinerary Inspiration
Our Peru itineraries are designed to showcase the country’s extraordinary landscapes, culture, and biodiversity through thoughtfully curated experiences tailored to different travel styles and interests.
The Wonders of Peru
Our 12-day trip around Peru includes as many highlights as possible. This is bucket-list Peru, the top spots combined with the most unique and intimate experiences. Our first-hand knowledge of the destination has enabled us to scout out truly wonderful experiences in the country’s most popular locations.
Peru & the Galápagos
Spanning 15 days across Peru and Ecuador, this journey pairs the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with a luxury cruise through the Galápagos Islands. Travel from the Andes to the Pacific, exploring ancient Inca sites, volcanic landscapes and some of South America’s most remarkable wildlife encounters along the way.
Peru Family Adventure
This 14-day family adventure explores Peru’s rainforest, valleys, and desert, combining active experiences, cultural discovery, and plenty of time to relax along the way. Peru is a fantastic place to travel with family, with interactive and educational experiences throughout the journey.
Altitudes and Adrenaline
A 10-day, pulse-raising tour of the Sacred Valley. We're talking zip lines, suites suspended in the sky, and world-class high-altitude trekking routes with luxury lodges along the way.
Introducing North Peru
This 10-day excursion explores northern Peru, a far less-traveled side of the country, venturing beyond Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Travel up the Pacific Coast from Lima to Chiclayo, explore the cloud forests of Chachapoyas for some of the world’s tallest waterfalls, and uncover the history of the cloud peoples. End on the beautiful sandy beaches of Máncora.
Responsible Travel in Peru
At Wayfairer, we take pride in ensuring all of our trips are responsible, ethical, and sustainable. We work alongside a fantastic supplier in Peru that wholeheartedly shares our core values regarding responsible tourism.
Peru, as a country, is incredibly progressive in its approach to positive tourism. The ecosystem is diverse, precious, and in need of protection. With each visit, we encourage all our clients traveling to Peru to do so in a responsible and respectful manner, ensuring we benefit the biosphere, economy, and culture. We have an outstanding relationship with local communities and look forward to introducing you to this beautiful country.
For more information, check out our extensive Responsible Travel Guide to Peru.
Travel Essentials
Before traveling to Peru, it’s worth understanding a few practical details around flights, entry requirements, currency, and getting around the country.
Getting there:
All our vacations to Peru begin and end in Lima. Peru's capital has some fantastic sights and serves as a gateway to the country's top destinations. Travelers typically take a domestic flight to arrive in Cusco, Arequipa, or Puno.
Flying time:
Direct flights from major US cities to Lima typically range from 8 - 12 hours, depending on departure location.
Recommended airlines:
LATAM, American Airlines,and other major US carriers
Time difference:
Peru operates on Peru Standard Time (PET) and does not observe daylight saving time.
Currency:
The official currency of Peru is the Sol (S/). However, US dollars are widely accepted in stores, restaurants, hotels, and service stations.
Visa Requirements:
US citizens can visit Peru for up to 90 days without a visa, provided their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond their arrival date. Entry requirements and travel regulations can change, so we recommend checking official government guidance before departure.
Vaccinations:
No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Peru. We do, however, advise that travelers get boosters for Hepatitis A & Tetanus if required. Other vaccines worth considering are Diphtheria, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever. These are all precautionary measures, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate is not required for entry into Peru.
Ready to start planning? Contact our team to create a personalized Peru itinerary.
If you are planning a trip to Peru with trekking in mind, we recommend reading our guide to Trekking in Peru for more information on altitude, trail preparation, and what to expect while hiking in the Andes.
