Travel Guide to Peru

Peru is one of South America's most captivating destinations, offering an extraordinary blend of ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the legendary Machu Picchu and the challenging Inca Trail to the world's deepest canyons, the biodiverse Amazon rainforest, the mysterious Nazca Lines, and Lake Titicaca's floating islands, Peru packs remarkable diversity into a single country.

Most trips to Peru naturally revolve around several themes: Inca heritage and archaeology, high-altitude Andean landscapes, Amazon rainforest adventures, coastal culture and cuisine, and outdoor adventures and trekking. The challenge and the joy is combining these experiences while managing Peru's significant altitude changes.

Machu Picchu is Peru's crown jewel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This 15th-century Inca citadel sits at 2,430m elevation, perched on a mountain ridge above the Sacred Valley.

• Machu Picchu – the iconic "Lost City of the Incas," rediscovered in 1911, with terraces, temples, and astronomical observatories
• Inca Trail – the legendary 4-day trek to Machu Picchu (permits required months in advance, limited to 500 people per day)
• Alternative treks – Salkantay Trek (5 days), Lares Trek (4 days), or Inca Jungle Trek for those without Inca Trail permits
• Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Moray, and Maras salt mines, all showcasing Inca engineering
• Cusco's ruins – Sacsayhuamán, Q'enqo, Tambomachay, all within reach of the city
• Train to Machu Picchu – scenic journey through the Urubamba Valley for non-trekkers

Visiting Machu Picchu requires advance booking – entry tickets sell out weeks in advance during peak season, and Inca Trail permits sell out 6 months ahead. Most visitors spend 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before trekking or visiting the ruins.

Peru's Andes mountains dominate the country's geography and culture. High-altitude travel requires acclimatization and preparation.

• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) – colorful striped mountain at 5,200m elevation, now a popular day trip from Cusco
• Colca Canyon – one of the world's deepest canyons (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon), famous for Andean condor viewing
• Lake Titicaca – the world's highest navigable lake at 3,812m, with floating Uros Islands and traditional Taquile Island
• Huascarán National Park – Peru's highest peaks and premier mountaineering destination
• Ausangate Trek – challenging 5-day circuit around 6,384m Ausangate peak
• Andean villages – traditional Quechua communities maintaining ancient customs

• Altitude sickness is a critical consideration** in Peru. Cusco sits at 3,400m, Puno at 3,800m, and many treks go above 4,000m. Acclimatization is essential – spend 2–3 days at moderate altitude before ascending higher, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider coca tea. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Severe cases require immediate descent.

The Peruvian Amazon covers 60% of Peru's territory and offers incredible biodiversity and jungle adventures.

• Iquitos – gateway to the northern Amazon, accessible only by air or multi-day boat
• Puerto Maldonado – southern Amazon gateway, closer to Cusco with easier access
• Jungle lodges – multi-day stays with guided wildlife tours, canopy walks, night safaris, and river trips
• Amazon riverboat cruises – luxury cruises exploring remote tributaries
• Wildlife viewing – monkeys, sloths, pink river dolphins, macaws, caimans, poison dart frogs, and countless bird species
• Indigenous communities – opportunities to learn about traditional Amazonian cultures
• Tambopata National Reserve & Manu Biosphere Reserve – pristine protected rainforest areas

The Amazon is hot, humid, and rainy year-round. Bring insect repellent, long sleeves, and rain gear. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended and may be required. Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended depending on the specific region.

Peru's Pacific coast offers a completely different experience from the mountains and jungle.

• Lima – sophisticated capital with world-class restaurants, colonial center, and oceanfront districts
• Peruvian cuisine – Lima is South America's culinary capital, known for ceviche, lomo saltado, anticuchos, and fusion cuisine
• Coastal desert – dramatic landscape of cliffs, dunes, and oases
• Paracas & Ballestas Islands – "poor man's Galápagos" with sea lions, penguins, and seabirds
• Huacachina oasis – desert lagoon surrounded by massive sand dunes, perfect for sandboarding
• Northern beaches – Máncora and nearby towns for surfing and beach relaxation

Lima is worth 2–3 days to experience Peru's modern side and incredible food scene. The city's Miraflores and Barranco districts offer ocean views, parks, and safe, walkable neighborhoods.

Peru's culture reflects layers of history: indigenous Andean traditions, Spanish colonial influence, African and Asian immigration, and modern fusion.

The Inca Empire dominated western South America for a century before Spanish conquest in 1533. Their achievements in architecture, agriculture, and governance remain visible today.

• Inca stonework – precisely fitted stones without mortar, still standing after 500+ years
• Agricultural terraces – sophisticated farming systems at different altitudes
• Quechua language – still spoken by millions in the Andes
• Traditional textiles – intricate weaving techniques passed down through generations
• Coca leaves – sacred plant used for altitude sickness, tea, and traditional ceremonies
• Pachamama (Mother Earth) worship – Andean spiritual beliefs blended with Catholicism

Visiting traditional markets like Pisac or Chinchero offers insight into continuing Andean culture, with locals in traditional dress selling produce, textiles, and crafts.

Spanish colonization left architectural treasures throughout Peru, especially in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.

• Colonial churches – ornate baroque architecture built on Inca foundations
• Plaza de Armas squares – central plazas in every town following Spanish urban planning
• Haciendas – colonial estates, many now converted to hotels
• Catholic festivals – elaborate religious celebrations blending Spanish and indigenous traditions
• Colonial mansions – preserved buildings showcasing viceregal-era wealth

Cusco's Plaza de Armas particularly demonstrates this blend, with colonial churches built directly on top of Inca palaces and temples.

Peruvian food has gained international recognition as one of the world's great cuisines, combining indigenous ingredients with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

• Ceviche – Peru's national dish of raw fish marinated in lime juice with onions and chili
• Lomo saltado – stir-fried beef with vegetables, showing Chinese influence
• Ají de gallina – creamy chicken stew with yellow chili peppers
• Anticuchos – grilled beef heart skewers, a street food favorite
• Cuy (guinea pig) – traditional Andean protein, usually roasted whole
• Pisco sour – Peru's national cocktail made with pisco brandy, lime, and egg white
• Chicha morada – purple corn drink, refreshing and ubiquitous
• Causa – layered potato dish with various fillings

Lima has multiple restaurants ranked among the world's best (Central, Maido, Astrid y Gastón). Even street food and small local restaurants offer excellent meals at very reasonable prices.

Peru's geography encompasses coast, mountains, and jungle, creating extraordinary natural diversity.

The Andes form the spine of Peru, creating dramatic landscapes and ecological diversity.

• Over 30 peaks above 6,000m elevation
• Glaciers, though rapidly retreating due to climate change
• Unique wildlife including vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and Andean condors
• High-altitude grasslands (puna) supporting traditional herding
• Deep canyons carved by rivers over millennia
• Snow-capped peaks visible from many Peruvian cities

The Cordillera Blanca near Huaraz is Peru's premier trekking and mountaineering destination, with trails ranging from day hikes to multi-week expeditions.

Lake Titicaca sits at 3,812m elevation on the Peru-Bolivia border, covering 8,372 square kilometers.

• Highest navigable lake in the world
• Sacred lake in Inca and pre-Inca mythology
• Uros Floating Islands made entirely of reeds, housing indigenous communities
• Taquile and Amantaní islands with traditional cultures and homestay opportunities
• Sillustani's pre-Inca burial towers overlooking nearby lagoons
• Stunning sunrises and sunsets over high-altitude waters

The lake's altitude makes it challenging for some visitors – spend at least one day acclimatizing in Puno before island tours.

The Nazca Lines remain one of archaeology's greatest mysteries – massive geoglyphs etched into the desert floor between 500 BCE and 500 CE.

• Over 800 straight lines, 300 geometric shapes, and 70 animal/plant designs
• Some figures span 200+ meters, visible only from the air
• Purpose remains debated: astronomical calendar, ritual pathways, or water cult
• Flight tours are the only way to properly see the lines
• UNESCO World Heritage site

Flights over the lines take 30 minutes and can be turbulent – those prone to motion sickness should take precautions.

The Peruvian Amazon is one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.

• Over 1,800 bird species (more than North America and Europe combined)
• 600+ mammal species
• 400+ amphibian species
• Countless insects, reptiles, and fish
• Over 16,000 tree species
• Indigenous peoples living traditionally for thousands of years

Visiting the Amazon requires realistic expectations – spotting large animals like jaguars is extremely rare. Success depends on choosing good lodges with experienced guides and spending multiple days in the jungle.

Peru has two main seasons that dramatically affect travel experiences, particularly in the Andes and Amazon.

Dry season (May–September) is peak tourist season, especially for mountain areas.

• Clear skies perfect for trekking and mountain views
• Coldest temperatures, especially at night (below freezing at altitude)
• Best time for Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and Cusco area
• Highest prices and largest crowds
• Book Inca Trail permits 6–12 months in advance
• Best month is June–August, though most crowded
• Shoulder months (April, October) offer decent weather with fewer crowds

This is the best time for altitude activities, but expect crowds at major sites and higher accommodation prices.

Green season (November–March) brings rain, particularly to mountain areas.

• Lush, green landscapes after months of dry conditions
• Lower prices and fewer tourists
• Rain can make treks muddy and miserable
• Inca Trail typically closes in February for maintenance
• Some landslides and road closures in mountain areas
• Better for jungle (though rainy year-round)
• Shoulder months (November, March) have less intense rain

Coast (Lima, Paracas) has opposite pattern – cloudy and cool November–March, sunny April–October.

Peru is an adventure sports paradise with activities across all skill levels.

• Trekking – from 4-day Inca Trail to challenging mountaineering expeditions, Peru offers hundreds of trails
• Mountain climbing – Cordillera Blanca has peaks from beginner to expert level
• Sandboarding – Huacachina's massive dunes offer thrilling rides
• White-water rafting – rivers near Cusco and Arequipa with Class III-V rapids
• Paragliding – tandem flights over Lima's Costa Verde or the Sacred Valley
• Surfing – northern beaches like Máncora and Chicama (world's longest left wave)
• Mountain biking – Death Road and other trails near Cusco
• Zip-lining – canopy tours in Sacred Valley and jungle

Most adventure activities require proper acclimatization, good physical fitness, and appropriate insurance coverage.

Lima is Peru's capital and largest city, home to over 10 million people in the metropolitan area. It's a sophisticated coastal metropolis that serves as the gateway to Peru.

• Key districts include:
• Miraflores** – modern, safe district with cliffside parks, ocean views, shopping, and dining
• Barranco** – bohemian neighborhood with colonial architecture, art galleries, bars, and nightlife
• San Isidro** – upscale business and residential district with parks
• Historic Center** – UNESCO World Heritage site with Plaza Mayor, colonial architecture, and Government Palace
• Callao** – port district, rough but improving, with interesting street art scene

Lima consistently ranks as South America's culinary capital. The city has multiple restaurants in the World's 50 Best Restaurants list and offers everything from street ceviche to molecular gastronomy.

Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and remains Peru's tourist heart. This UNESCO World Heritage city sits at 3,400m elevation in the Andes.

• Plaza de Armas with twin colonial cathedrals
• Inca walls throughout the city, showing masterful stonework
• San Blas artisan neighborhood with narrow streets and workshops
• Sacsayhuamán fortress overlooking the city
• Gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley
• Vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene
• Altitude acclimatization essential – spend 2–3 days adjusting

Cusco blends Inca foundations with Spanish colonial buildings in a unique architectural fusion found nowhere else.

Arequipa, Peru's second-largest city, sits at 2,380m elevation in southern Peru. Known as the "White City" for its distinctive white volcanic stone architecture.

• Santa Catalina Monastery – massive convent, a city within a city
• One of Peru's most beautiful Plaza de Armas
• El Misti volcano dominating the skyline
• Gateway to Colca Canyon
• More relaxed atmosphere than Lima or Cusco
• Excellent picanterías serving local cuisine
• Good altitude acclimatization point before going higher

Accommodation prices vary dramatically by location, season, and type. All prices in Peruvian Soles (PEN/S/).

• Hostel dorm beds: S/40–S/80 per night (roughly US$10–21)
• Private rooms in hostels: S/100–S/200 per night (US$27–54)
• Budget hotels: S/100–S/250 per night (US$27–68)
• Guesthouses: S/120–S/280 per night (US$32–76)

Budget accommodation in Peru is plentiful and often includes breakfast. Cusco and Lima have the most options.

• Standard hotels: Single rooms around S/250–S/500 per night (US$68–135); double rooms around S/300–S/600 (US$81–162)
• Mid-range hotels in Cusco/Lima: S/350–S/700 per night (US$95–189)
• Boutique hotels: S/400–S/800 per night (US$108–216)

Mid-range options typically include breakfast, private bathrooms, WiFi, and comfortable amenities.

• High-end city hotels: Deluxe rooms at roughly S/800–S/2,000 per night (US$216–540); suites can run S/2,000–S/5,000+ (US$540–1,350+)
• Sacred Valley luxury lodges: S/2,500–S/8,000+ per night (US$675–2,160+), often all-inclusive with gourmet meals, guides, and activities
• Amazon luxury lodges: S/2,000–S/7,500+ per night (US$540–2,025+), typically all-inclusive
• Belmond properties: S/3,000–S/10,000+ per night (US$810–2,700+)

Luxury properties in the Sacred Valley (Explora, Inkaterra, Tambo del Inka) offer all-inclusive experiences with expert guides, gourmet Peruvian cuisine, and exclusive access to sites. The Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel at Machu Picchu itself.

• Peak season: May–September, especially June–August, prices increase 100–200%
• Inca Trail permits: Must book 6–12 months ahead (sell out quickly)
• Sacred Valley luxury lodges: Book 6–12 months in advance for peak season
• Shoulder season: April and October offer better value with decent weather
• Low season: November–March has lowest prices but rainy weather affects mountain travel

Most nationalities can enter Peru visa-free for tourism:

• US citizens, Canadians, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, and many others receive 90-day visa-free entry
• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity required
• No visa fee for most nationalities
• Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel and sufficient funds
• 90 days per 180-day period (extensions possible at immigration office)
• Entry is straightforward at Lima airport or land borders

Peruvian immigration technically requires proof of onward travel (return or outbound ticket) but enforcement is inconsistent. Airlines may be stricter than immigration. Have proof of onward travel ready.

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended (and sometimes required) for travel to Amazon regions and other jungle areas:

• Required if arriving from countries with yellow fever risk
• Strongly recommended for any Amazon travel (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado, Manu)
• Proof of vaccination (yellow card) may be checked
• Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel
• Vaccination is valid for life

For stays longer than 90 days: - Work visa – requires employer sponsorship - Student visa – requires enrollment at Peruvian institution - Retirement visa – requires proof of income - Extensions can be requested at Lima immigration office

Peru has a two-tier healthcare system: public system for residents (variable quality) and private hospitals/clinics where most travelers seek care. Quality varies dramatically between Lima and remote areas.

• Routine Care:
• General practitioner visit: S/100–S/250 (about US$27–68)
• Specialist consultation: S/150–S/400 (US$40–108)
• Prescription medications: S/30–S/200 (US$8–54), depending on medication

• Emergency Care:
• Emergency room visit: S/300–S/1,500 (US$81–405)
• Overnight hospital stay: S/1,200–S/5,000 per day (US$325–1,350)
• ICU stay: S/3,000–S/12,000 per day (US$810–3,240)
• Emergency surgery: S/8,000–S/40,000+ (US$2,160–10,800+)

• Altitude Sickness Treatment:
• Oxygen therapy: S/50–S/200 per hour (US$13–54)
• Medications (acetazolamide/Diamox): S/40–S/120 (US$11–32)
• Severe altitude sickness hospital treatment: S/2,000–S/8,000+ (US$540–2,160+)

• Specialized Procedures:
• CT scan: S/400–S/800 (US$108–216)
• MRI scan: S/800–S/1,500 (US$216–405)

• Lima – excellent private hospitals (Clínica Anglo Americana, Clínica San Felipe) with English-speaking doctors meeting international standards
• Cusco – decent private clinics for common issues, limited for serious emergencies
• Arequipa – good private hospitals
• Amazon/Remote areas – basic facilities only; serious cases require evacuation to Lima or major city
• High-altitude areas – medical resources limited; altitude sickness cases may need evacuation to lower altitude

Given Peru's geography (high altitude, remote Amazon), evacuation can be life-saving but expensive:

• Helicopter evacuation from Inca Trail/high altitude to Cusco: US$10,000–30,000
• Air ambulance from Cusco to Lima: US$15,000–40,000
• Air ambulance from Amazon to Lima: US$20,000–50,000
• International evacuation to US: US$50,000–150,000+
• Ambulance within Lima: S/200–S/800 (US$54–216)

Altitude-related emergencies and Amazon accidents are the most common reasons for evacuation.

• Altitude Sickness:
• Most critical health concern in Peru
• Affects anyone ascending quickly above 2,500m
• Symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness
• Prevention: ascend gradually, spend 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before going higher, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol
• Medication: acetazolamide (Diamox) can help prevent symptoms
• Severe cases (HAPE/HACE) are medical emergencies requiring immediate descent

• Other Health Risks:
• Yellow fever** – recommended vaccination for Amazon regions
• Malaria** – risk in Amazon, take prophylaxis if visiting jungle
• Traveler's diarrhea** – common; stick to bottled water, cooked foods
• Typhoid** – vaccination recommended
• Dengue** – mosquito-borne disease in coastal and jungle areas
• Tap water** – not safe to drink anywhere in Peru; use bottled water

Given altitude risks, remote areas, adventure activities, and potential evacuation costs, comprehensive travel insurance is essential for Peru – this is not optional.

• Medical Coverage Including Altitude Sickness
• Recommended minimum: US$100,000 in medical coverage
• US$250,000+ strongly recommended for high-altitude travel
• Explicitly confirm altitude sickness is covered** – some policies exclude conditions above certain elevations
• Verify coverage includes treatment at private hospitals in Lima
• Coverage for hyperbaric oxygen therapy if needed

• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation – CRITICAL
• Look for at least US$250,000 in evacuation coverage
• US$500,000 recommended** given Peru's remote regions and altitude evacuations
• Confirm coverage includes:
• - Helicopter evacuation from remote trekking areas
• - Air ambulance from high altitude to lower elevation
• - Evacuation from Amazon jungle to major city
• - International repatriation to home country
• - Repatriation of remains

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption
• Protects non-refundable costs like flights, hotels, Inca Trail permits
• Important given Peru's distance and expensive flights
• Inca Trail permits are non-refundable and sell out months ahead
• Weather can close Machu Picchu access (happens occasionally)
• Consider "Cancel For Any Reason" (CFAR) for maximum flexibility

• Adventure Activities Coverage
• Confirm coverage includes:
• - Trekking at high altitude (Inca Trail, Salkantay, etc.)
• - Mountain climbing if applicable
• - White-water rafting
• - Sandboarding
• - Zip-lining
• Standard policies may exclude high-altitude trekking above 4,000m
• May need specialized adventure travel policy

• Theft & Personal Belongings
• Peru has pickpocketing and theft in tourist areas, especially Cusco and Lima
• Ensure adequate coverage for camera gear, electronics, and valuables
• Keep receipts for expensive items
• File police report immediately for any theft (required for claims)

• Altitude sickness – most common medical claim, from mild to requiring evacuation
• Gastrointestinal illness – traveler's diarrhea and food-borne illness
• Trekking injuries – sprains, falls, and exhaustion on Inca Trail and other treks
• Trip interruption – weather closing Machu Picchu access (rare but happens)
• Theft – pickpocketing in Cusco, Lima, and tourist areas
• Missed connections – domestic flight delays within Peru

When comparing policies, focus on:

• Altitude coverage – explicitly confirm no exclusions for elevations in Peru (up to 5,200m for Rainbow Mountain)
• Evacuation limits – US$500,000 recommended for Peru
• Adventure activity coverage – trekking, hiking, altitude activities included
• Medical coverage at private facilities – minimum US$100,000, preferably US$250,000+
• 24/7 assistance – with Spanish-speaking support
• Pre-existing conditions – check how these are handled
• Inca Trail permit coverage – some policies cover non-refundable permits if you can't travel

• Recommended providers for Peru:** Look for adventure travel specialists who explicitly cover high-altitude trekking and have experience with Peru evacuations. World Nomads, Battleface, IMG Global, and similar adventure-focused insurers are popular with Peru travelers.

• Buy insurance when you book your trip to ensure maximum coverage
• Read altitude exclusions carefully – some policies exclude coverage above 4,000m or 5,000m
• Verify trekking activities are covered (not all "hiking" coverage includes multi-day high-altitude treks)
• Keep all receipts, medical reports, and police reports for claims
• Register Inca Trail permits and other non-refundable bookings with your policy
• Emergency numbers should be easily accessible during remote treks

Peru offers an extraordinary combination of ancient wonders, dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and adventure opportunities unmatched anywhere in the world. From standing at Machu Picchu as sunrise illuminates the peaks to trekking the Inca Trail, from exploring the Amazon's biodiversity to spotting condors in Colca Canyon, from savoring world-class ceviche in Lima to experiencing traditional culture on Lake Titicaca's islands, Peru captivates and challenges travelers in equal measure.

The altitude presents unique challenges – proper acclimatization is not optional, and altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness level. But with thoughtful planning around altitude, comprehensive travel insurance with robust evacuation coverage, awareness of health precautions, and respect for Peru's challenging geography, you can maximize safety and enjoyment.

Whether you're hiking the Inca Trail, exploring colonial Cusco, navigating Lima's culinary scene, or venturing into the Amazon rainforest, Peru rewards careful preparation with extraordinary experiences. This is a destination that demands respect for its altitude and remoteness but offers once-in-a-lifetime adventures and memories that will stay with you forever.