Peru Travel Guide

Why Visit Peru?

Peru is one of the world's most captivating travel destinations, offering an extraordinary blend of history, adventure, nature, culture experiences. Whether you're drawn by the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, or world-renowned cuisine, Peru promises an unforgettable journey.

With a capital in Lima and languages including Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, Peruwelcomes millions of visitors every year. The country's diverse landscapes range from bustling metropolises to serene natural wonders, making it a destination that truly has something for every type of traveler.

History of Peru

Peru was home to one of humanity's greatest civilisations — the Inca Empire, which at its peak in the 15th century stretched 4,000 km along the Andes from modern Colombia to Chile, governing 12 million people through an extraordinary system of roads, relay runners, record-keeping with knotted strings (quipus), and agricultural terracing that transformed mountain landscapes. But Peru's history stretches back much further — the Caral civilisation in the coastal desert (3,000 BC) predates Egypt's pyramids, while the Nazca people etched their famous geoglyphs into the desert floor between 400–650 AD. The Moche, Chimu, and Tiwanaku cultures each built sophisticated societies before the Inca unified the Andes under Cusco's rule. Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro defeated Inca emperor Atahualpa in 1532 with just 168 men through a combination of treachery, smallpox, and firearms, looting an estimated 13,420 pounds of gold. Three centuries of Spanish colonial rule established Lima as the capital of South America's wealthiest viceroyalty. Independence came in 1821 under José de San Martín and Simón Bolívar. Modern Peru has worked to reconcile its Spanish colonial heritage with its indigenous Quechua and Aymara identity, and today Machu Picchu — rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 — stands as the most recognisable symbol of pre-Columbian achievement.

Top Attractions in Peru

From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, here are the essential places you must visit during your trip to Peru.

UNESCO Inca Citadel🇵🇪

Machu Picchu

The 15th-century Inca citadel perched on a cloud-forest ridge above the Urubamba River is the most awe-inspiring archaeological site in the Americas — 150 granite buildings mortared without a single drop of cement, aligned with solar solstices, surrounded by plunging valleys and Andean peaks. The Sun Gate approach on the Inca Trail at dawn is one of the world's great arrival moments.

$52 (timed entry) Best: May to October (dry season); arrive first entry at 6am

UNESCO Historic City🇵🇪

Cusco Historic Centre

The Inca capital — Qusqu in Quechua, meaning navel of the world — was rebuilt by Spanish colonisers on top of Inca foundations, creating a unique city where Spanish baroque churches and colonial mansions rest on perfectly fitted Inca stonework. The Plaza de Armas, the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), and the narrow stone lanes of San Blas are among South America's most compelling urban environments.

Cusco Tourist Ticket $40 (covers 16 sites) Best: May to September; Inti Raymi festival (June 24)

High-Altitude Lake🇵🇪

Lake Titicaca

The world's highest navigable lake at 3,812 metres sits on the Peru-Bolivia border, its deep blue waters ringed by snow-capped Andean peaks. The floating reed islands of the Uros people — who have lived on man-made totora reed islands for centuries — and the sacred island of Taquile with its Quechua-speaking weavers (UNESCO-listed) offer genuinely extraordinary cultural encounters.

$5–15 (boat tours) Best: May to October (dry season)

Ancient Geoglyphs🇵🇪

Nazca Lines

Etched into the high desert plateau of southern Peru by the Nazca civilisation between 400–650 AD, these enormous geoglyphs — a hummingbird, condor, spider, monkey, and astronaut figure visible only from the air — span up to 370 metres and cover 450 sq km. Their purpose remains debated: astronomical calendar, ritual pathways, or offerings to mountain deities.

$5 (viewing tower); $70–100 (light aircraft flight) Best: Year-round; flights best in morning before afternoon winds

Amazon Wildlife Reserve🇵🇪

Amazon Rainforest — Manu / Tambopata

Peru contains the most biodiverse section of the Amazon basin — Manu Biosphere Reserve has more bird species (1,000+) than the entire USA and Canada combined. Tambopata National Reserve near Puerto Maldonado offers accessible jungle lodges where macaw clay licks, giant river otters, caimans, tapirs, and six species of monkey can be encountered within a short boat ride.

$30–50 (permits); lodge packages $150–400/night Best: May to October (dry season, best wildlife visibility)

Best Time to Visit Peru

The ideal time to visit Peru is during May to October (dry season). During this period, you'll enjoy the most favorable weather conditions with comfortable temperatures, lower rainfall and vibrant local events and festivals.

However, Peru has something to offer throughout the year. The shoulder seasons often provide a great balance between good weather and smaller crowds, while even the off-season reveals a different, more authentic side of the country that many travelers find even more rewarding.

How to Get to Peru

Getting to Peru is straightforward with multiple transport options available depending on your departure location. Most international visitors arrive by air at the main international airports, though rail and road connections make Peru highly accessible from neighboring countries.

The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). It's advisable to carry some local currency for smaller purchases, markets and rural areas, though major credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas.

Food & Cuisine in Peru

The food culture of Peru is a fascinating reflection of its history, geography and traditions. Local cuisine features bold flavors, fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes passed down through generations. Street food markets, family-run restaurants and fine dining establishments each offer a unique window into the soul of the country.

Don't leave Peru without trying the local signature dishes. Visit local markets in the morning for the freshest ingredients, and explore neighborhood eateries away from tourist centers for the most authentic dining experiences.

Essential Travel Tips for Peru

• Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements well in advance as processing times can vary.
• Health & Safety: Research any required vaccinations and register with your embassy upon arrival.
• Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to show respect for the culture.
• Transport: Public transport in major cities is generally reliable and cost-effective.
• Language: Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish will go a long way in your interactions.
• Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people and respect signs restricting photography at religious sites.
• Bargaining: Bargaining is often expected in markets — start at 50% of the asking price.
• Budget: Have a mix of payment options — cash, cards and potentially a travel card with low fees.

Sample Peru Itineraries

We've created three itinerary options based on the length of your visit. Each one is carefully designed to maximize your experience while allowing enough time to truly appreciate each destination.

Budget Guide: How Much Does Peru Cost?

Perucaters to all budget levels — from backpackers to luxury travelers. Here's a general breakdown to help you plan your budget effectively:

Traditional Culture & Lifestyle in Peru

Understanding Peru's traditional culture and way of life will transform your trip from sightseeing into genuine connection. Here is what makes Peru's culture truly unique.

Traditional Foods of Peru

These are the signature dishes and flavors that define Peru's culinary identity — dishes every visitor must try:

Traditional Dress & Fashion

Daily Life & Lifestyle in Peru

Festivals & Celebrations

Plan your trip around these remarkable Peru celebrations for an unforgettable cultural experience:

Etiquette & Cultural Do's in Peru

Showing respect for local customs will open doors and create genuine connections with people:

• Greet with a handshake or kiss on the cheek between friends
• Respect indigenous ceremonies — don't photograph without permission
• 'Buen provecho' (bon appétit) is always said before eating
• Altitude sickness is real — take days to acclimatise in Cusco
• Bargaining is acceptable in markets