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Overview
Peru is a country of striking contrasts — a narrow desert coastline, the spine of the Andes running through the centre, and the vast Amazon basin to the east. It is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth and one of the cradles of South American civilisation, home to cultures that predate the Inca by millennia.
Lima, the capital, sits on the Pacific coast and functions as the main international gateway. It has emerged as a significant culinary destination in its own right and holds a large share of Peru's colonial and pre-Columbian museums. From Lima, most visitors head to Cusco — the historic Inca capital — and use it as a base for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Beyond the classic circuit, Peru rewards travellers willing to go further. The Colca Canyon near Arequipa is one of the world's deepest. Lake Titicaca on the Bolivian border sits at around 3,800 m above sea level. The Amazon tributaries around Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado offer wildlife-rich jungle lodges with minimal road access. The northern highlands around Chachapoyas contain ruins that remain far less crowded than Cusco.
The country's scale means that even three weeks leaves much unexplored. Planning around a single region per trip is a practical approach for most travellers.
Before You Go
Visas
Visa requirements vary by nationality. For general guidance, visit TravelerPulse's Visas section and cross-check with the official Peruvian immigration authority (Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones) before travel. Do not rely on third-party summaries alone, as rules change.
Health
Altitude sickness (soroche) is a real concern above 2,500 m. Cusco sits at roughly 3,400 m and Machu Picchu at around 2,430 m. Arriving via Cusco rather than flying directly from sea level gives the body some adjustment time, though altitude affects people unpredictably. Consult a doctor before travel about medication options such as acetazolamide. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travel into the Amazon regions. Check current requirements with a travel health clinic well in advance.
Vaccinations and health prep
- Hepatitis A and typhoid: generally advised for all travellers
- Yellow fever: required or recommended for Amazon regions; verify with your health authority
- Routine vaccinations should be up to date
- Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended for lower-altitude Amazon areas — verify locally
Travel insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation is strongly advisable. Emergency evacuation from remote areas can be extremely expensive without coverage.
What to pack
- Layers are essential — temperatures swing dramatically between day and night in the Andes
- A good-quality rain jacket for highland and jungle travel
- Sun protection: UV intensity is high at altitude
- Waterproof footwear for the wet season or jungle visits
- Altitude remedies if recommended by your doctor
Getting There
By air
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima is Peru's principal international gateway. It receives direct flights from North America, Europe, and numerous Latin American hubs. Most travellers arriving from outside the Americas will connect through a major hub city. Cusco's Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ) receives domestic flights and some regional connections, though its high altitude and short runway mean it has operating limitations.
Domestic flights
Domestic air travel is the most practical way to cover Peru's large distances. Routes connecting Lima with Cusco, Arequipa, Iquitos, Juliaca (for Lake Titicaca), and other cities are served by several carriers. Book in advance, particularly for the May–October high season when seats sell out. Verify current carriers and schedules as the domestic aviation landscape in Peru has changed over time.
Overland
Bus travel in Peru ranges from basic to comfortable. Several operators run long-distance coach services with cama (flat or semi-flat) seating on major routes such as Lima–Cusco and Lima–Arequipa. Journeys are long — Lima to Cusco overland takes roughly 20–24 hours — so flying often makes more sense for long legs. Border crossings into Bolivia (Desaguadero, Copacabana), Ecuador, Colombia, and Chile exist but verify current conditions before travel.
By sea
There is no significant commercial passenger sea access to Peru. River boats on the Amazon operate between Iquitos and Brazilian or Colombian towns along the river — a slow but immersive option for travellers with time.
Getting Around
Flights
For most itineraries covering multiple regions, domestic flights save significant time. Book early, confirm baggage allowances, and reconfirm flights before travel — schedules can change.
Train
Peru Rail and Inca Rail operate services between Cusco (or Ollantaytambo) and Aguas Calientes (the gateway town to Machu Picchu). This is one of the only practical ways to reach Machu Picchu other than trekking. Book tickets well in advance, especially for peak season. A separate train line, the Titicaca Train, connects Cusco with Puno — a scenic alternative to the bus.
Bus
Between major cities, reputable coach companies offer reasonable comfort on paved roads. Within the Sacred Valley and for shorter Andean routes, shared minibuses (combis) are widely used by locals and are economical, though sometimes crowded. For long-distance travel, choosing an established company over the cheapest option tends to be safer.
Taxis and rideshare
In Lima, app-based ride services operate and are generally recommended over hailing unmarked taxis for safety. In other cities, agree on the fare before entering a non-metered taxi. Ask your accommodation to recommend trusted drivers.
Hiking and private transport
Many sites — particularly in the Sacred Valley and around Cusco — are accessible by hiring a driver for the day, which is common practice and often shared among small groups. The Inca Trail and other treks require booking through licensed operators well in advance, as permits are limited.
Things to See & Do
Machu Picchu
Peru's most iconic site is the 15th-century Inca citadel set on a ridge above the Urubamba River. Visitor numbers are managed through timed entry slots — book permits and train tickets as far in advance as possible. The site is typically approached via Aguas Calientes, reached by train or by completing one of the trekking routes. The Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain climbs offer elevated viewpoints and require separate permits.
Cusco and the Sacred Valley
Cusco itself warrants at least two or three days. The Plaza de Armas, the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), and the nearby fortress of Sacsayhuamán are key sites. The Sacred Valley runs between Pisac and Ollantaytambo, with terraced ruins, markets, and traditional communities along the way. Both Pisac and Ollantaytambo have significant Inca architecture.
Lake Titicaca
From Puno, boat trips reach the floating reed islands of the Uros and the inhabited islands of Taquile and Amantaní, where homestays with local families are available. The lake's sheer scale — it sits at the border of Peru and Bolivia — and the quality of light at altitude make it a distinctive experience.
Arequipa and Colca Canyon
Arequipa, the 'White City', is built largely from a white volcanic stone (sillar) and has a well-preserved colonial centre designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Arequipa, the Colca Canyon — roughly twice the depth of the Grand Canyon at its deepest — is accessible by road. Condors are commonly sighted from the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, particularly in the morning.
Amazon basin
Iquitos, accessible only by air or river, is the main city for northern Amazon exploration. Puerto Maldonado in the southeast gives access to Tambopata National Reserve. Wildlife — macaws, river otters, caimans, and monkeys — is the main draw. Lodges of varying comfort levels operate in both areas.
Other highlights
- Huacachina: an oasis lagoon surrounded by sand dunes in the Ica desert; sandboarding and dune-buggy tours operate from here
- Chachapoyas region: less-visited pre-Inca ruins including Kuélap, a massive walled city
- Nazca Lines: enormous geoglyphs on the southern desert plain, viewed by light aircraft or from viewing platforms; verify current overflight operations
- Lima's museums: the Larco Museum holds one of the world's most significant pre-Columbian collections; verify hours and admission locally
Food & Drink
Peruvian cuisine has gained significant international recognition and is genuinely worth exploring beyond tourist restaurants. The cooking draws on indigenous Andean ingredients — potatoes (Peru has thousands of native varieties), quinoa, corn, and chillies — alongside influences from Spanish, African, Japanese, and Chinese immigration. This Chinese-Peruvian fusion style, known as chifa, and Japanese-Peruvian nochoku (Nikkei) cuisine are particularly notable.
Dishes to try
- Ceviche: raw fish cured in lime juice with chilli and onion; Lima and coastal areas serve the freshest versions
- Lomo saltado: stir-fried beef with tomatoes, onions, and chillies, typically served with rice and fried potatoes — a clear example of chifa influence
- Ají de gallina: shredded chicken in a creamy yellow chilli sauce
- Causa: a cold terrine of mashed yellow potato layered with fillings
- Anticuchos: marinated and grilled beef heart skewers, common street food
- Rocoto relleno: stuffed spicy red pepper, typical of Arequipa
- Cuy: roasted guinea pig, traditional in highland regions — worth trying with an open mind
Drinks
- Pisco Sour: the national cocktail, made with pisco (a grape brandy), lime juice, egg white, and bitters
- Chicha morada: a refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from purple maize
- Chicha de jora: a fermented maize drink traditional in Andean communities
- Mate de coca: coca leaf tea, commonly offered at altitude to help with acclimatisation; legal in Peru
In Cusco and Lima, restaurants range from simple market eateries (mercados) to internationally acclaimed fine-dining establishments. Eating in markets is generally good value; look for busy stalls with fast turnover as a basic indicator of freshness.
Shopping
Peru has a strong tradition of textile crafts. Hand-woven alpaca and wool textiles — blankets, ponchos, scarves, and clothing — are produced in highland communities using techniques with deep historical roots. Quality varies widely. Alpaca fibre ranges from standard to baby alpaca (softer and more expensive) to vicuña (very expensive and regulated). Be sceptical of items labelled '100% alpaca' at very low prices; acrylic blends are common in tourist markets.
Cusco's San Blas neighbourhood and the surrounding streets have a concentration of artisan workshops and galleries. The Pisac market in the Sacred Valley runs on certain days and is one of the more authentic craft markets in the region, though it draws significant tourist traffic. Verify market days locally.
Ceramic replicas of pre-Columbian designs, silver jewellery, and mate burilado (engraved gourd art from the Huancayo region) are other common souvenirs. Lima's Miraflores and Barranco districts have upmarket craft and design shops.
Note that exporting genuine pre-Columbian artefacts is illegal under Peruvian law and can result in serious legal consequences. Purchase only certified reproductions from reputable sellers.
Practical Information
Money
The Peruvian Sol (PEN) is the currency. US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and sometimes preferred for larger transactions. ATMs are available in cities and larger towns; carry some cash when travelling to rural or remote areas. Counterfeit notes exist — inspect bills carefully and be cautious when receiving change.
Connectivity
Mobile data SIM cards from local carriers are available at the airport and in cities and are generally affordable. Coverage is good in urban areas but patchy in the highlands and very limited in the deep Amazon. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and many cafés in tourist areas.
Electricity
Peru uses 220V, 60Hz. Plug types A and C are most common. Confirm before travel and carry adapters as needed.
Tipping
Tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated. In restaurants, a service charge (servicio) may already appear on the bill — check before adding a tip. For guides and drivers, tipping is customary and forms a meaningful part of their income.
Emergency numbers
Emergencies: verify the current national emergency line locally on arrival. Tourist police (Policía de Turismo) operate in major tourist cities including Lima and Cusco and can assist with complaints and lost documents.
Altitude management
- Ascend gradually where possible
- Stay well hydrated and avoid heavy meals and alcohol in the first day or two at altitude
- Rest on the first day in Cusco
- Seek medical attention if symptoms — severe headache, confusion, or difficulty breathing — worsen
Safety
Peru is visited safely by millions of travellers each year, but like any destination it requires awareness and common sense. Petty theft — bag snatching, pickpocketing, and distraction-based theft — is the most common issue affecting tourists, particularly in busy markets, on public transport, and in central areas of Lima, Cusco, and other cities. Use a crossbody bag, avoid displaying expensive electronics, and keep copies of important documents separately from originals.
Express kidnapping (where victims are briefly taken to ATMs to withdraw cash) has been reported in some cities. Using app-based ride services rather than hailing unmarked taxis reduces this risk significantly, particularly at night.
Altitude-related illness is a genuine safety consideration — see the Practical section above. Solo trekkers should take advice from reputable operators and not venture onto remote trails without adequate preparation, a local guide, or knowledge of conditions.
Check your government's current travel advisory for Peru before departure, as conditions in specific regions can change. Some areas, particularly certain highland regions, may carry elevated advisory levels at any given time.
Consular registration with your home country's embassy upon arrival in Peru is advisable for longer stays.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Peru's cultural identity is deeply pluralistic. A significant portion of the population is of indigenous descent, and Quechua — the language of the Inca Empire — is still spoken by millions of people in the highlands. Respect for local customs, particularly in indigenous communities, is important. If visiting a community as part of a tour, follow the guidance of your guide and ask before photographing people.
Religious practice in Peru blends Roman Catholicism, introduced during the colonial period, with older Andean spiritual traditions. Festivals throughout the year — including Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) in Cusco in June and Corpus Christi — reflect this layered heritage. Inti Raymi in particular draws large crowds; book accommodation and transport well in advance if visiting during this period.
Dress codes are generally relaxed in urban areas, but modest dress is expected when visiting churches and some communities. Removing shoes before entering certain sacred or domestic spaces may be expected — observe and follow local practice.
Bargaining in markets is common and expected, but should be done respectfully. Aggressive or dismissive haggling is considered poor form. Establishing a fair price that both parties accept is the norm.
Food is a point of significant national pride. Showing genuine interest in Peruvian cuisine is generally welcomed and can be a good starting point for conversation with locals.
