Peru
Hike along ancient Inca trails, get lost in the streets of Cusco, and come face to face with the iconic Machu Picchu.
The Ultimate Travel Guide for a trip to Peru
Travelling through Peru? Absolutely! Peru is one of South America’s most diverse destinations, where ancient Inca culture, spectacular nature and adventurous experiences come together. Wander through the charming streets of Cusco, explore the Sacred Valley and come face to face with iconic Machu Picchu. Then discover a completely different side of Peru: go sandboarding among the dunes of Huacachina and spot wildlife around the Ballestas Islands. These are all our tips for an unforgettable journey through Peru!
An Adventure in Peru
From Machu Picchu and Cusco to the sand dunes of Huacachina: Peru is full of places you’ll want to see. Discover the best itineraries, experiences, and practical travel tips.
An Adventure in Peru
From Machu Picchu and Cusco to the sand dunes of Huacachina: Peru is full of places you’ll want to see. Discover the best itineraries, experiences, and practical travel tips.
Practical Travel Tips for Peru
Planning a trip through Peru is a lot of fun, but where do you start? Let us help you get started by answering the most frequently asked questions about Peru.
What is the best time to visit Peru?
The best time to travel to Peru depends on which parts of the country you plan to explore. Peru has several different climates, so the ideal travel period varies by region:
- On the coast: the best time to visit Lima is from December to February, and for Paracas, from January to June;
- Andes: The best time to visit is from May to September;
- Amazon: The best time to visit is from May to October, during the dry season.
Also read our article full with practical tips for travelling in Peru.
Is Peru safe to travel to?
Peru is relatively easy and safe to travel around, but it’s important to stay alert, especially in busy cities and tourist areas. Prepare well, choose reliable transport providers and check the latest travel advice before you go.
What is a nice place to stay in Lima?
A great place to start your journey through Peru is Miraflores in Lima. This popular and safe neighbourhood is home to plenty of good restaurants and beautiful hotels, making it a convenient base for exploring the city’s main sights. Read our tips for the best places to stay and things to do in Miraflores, Peru.
Is Peru a good destination for a family holiday?
Absolutely. Peru is a fascinating destination for families who enjoy combining culture, nature and adventure. Keep in mind that journeys can be long, altitudes vary significantly and it’s important to build enough time for rest into your itinerary.
How many weeks do you need for a trip through Peru?
With two to three weeks, you can create a great itinerary covering the main highlights, such as Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. If you have four weeks or more, you can extend your route with destinations such as Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Huacachina or the Amazon region.
What is a good itinerary for a 2-week trip to Peru?
In two weeks, you could combine Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with Huacachina and Arequipa. Don’t pack your itinerary too tightly. The distances and changes in altitude make it worthwhile to build in some time to slow down and rest. We share our ultimate 2-week itinerary through Peru to help you plan your trip.
How many days do you need for Machu Picchu?
You can visit Machu Picchu in a day, but it’s worth spending several nights around Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This gives you time to acclimatise to the altitude and combine Machu Picchu with other incredible places in the region.
Read our personal tips for visiting Machu Picchu here.
Can you visit Machu Picchu without hiking the Inca Trail?
Yes. The Inca Trail is a spectacular way to reach Machu Picchu, but it’s certainly not the only option. You can also travel to Machu Picchu by train or choose from several other hiking routes, making it accessible to all kinds of travellers.
