About Peru
Peru captivates travelers with its ancient Incan heritage, including the iconic Machu Picchu, diverse landscapes from Amazon rainforest to Andean peaks, and vibrant culinary scene. This South American gem offers world-class hiking, rich indigenous cultures, and colonial architecture in cities like Cusco and Lima.
Quick Overview
Capital: Lima
Languages: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara
Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone: UTC-5 (Peru Time)
Explore Peru by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Peru
Discover the top 26 must-see destinations in Peru, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Machu Picchu
The iconic 15th-century Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains is Peru's most famous attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient 'Lost...
Sacred Valley
This stunning valley along the Urubamba River served as the heartland of the Incan Empire and features impressive archaeological sites including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray....
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
This stunning natural geological formation features vibrant stripes of red, yellow, turquoise, and lavender created by mineral deposits over millions of years. Located at 5,200...
Lake Titicaca
The world's highest navigable lake at 3,812 meters straddling the Peru-Bolivia border is home to indigenous communities including the famous floating Uros islands made entirely...
Colca Canyon
One of the world's deepest canyons at twice the depth of the Grand Canyon offers spectacular trekking, traditional Andean villages, and prime condor viewing at...
Nazca Lines
These ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor between 500 BCE and 500 CE depict animals, plants, and geometric shapes visible only from the air....
Historic Center of Lima
Lima's colonial heart features stunning Spanish architecture including the Plaza Mayor, Government Palace, and baroque Cathedral of Lima. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases ornate...
Amazon Rainforest (Iquitos/Puerto Maldonado)
The Peruvian Amazon offers incredible biodiversity with opportunities to spot pink river dolphins, macaws, monkeys, caimans, and hundreds of bird species. Multi-day jungle lodge stays...
Recommended Itineraries for Peru
Plan your perfect Peru trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Peru Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Peru, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Peru
- Days 1-2: Peru city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Peru
- Days 1-3: Peru comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Peru, departure
Where to Stay in Peru
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Peru offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($30-45)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($80-130)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($250-500+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Belmond Hotel Monasterio
This exquisite 16th-century monastery in Cusco's historic center has been transformed into a luxury hotel featuring oxygen-enriched rooms, colonial art...
Casa Andina Premium Cusco
Well-located mid-range hotel near Cusco's Plaza de Armas offers comfortable rooms with heating, oxygen enrichment system, and colonial-meets-contemporary design. The...
Pariwana Hostel Cusco
Popular backpacker hostel near Plaza de Armas offers dorms and private rooms, excellent social atmosphere, and helpful staff. The property...
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
The only hotel located at the entrance to Machu Picchu offers unparalleled access to the citadel for sunrise and sunset...
Where to Eat in Peru
Discover the culinary delights of Peru, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Central
Ranked among the world's best restaurants, Central showcases Peruvian biodiversity through innovative tasting menus organized by altitude zones. Chef Virgilio...
La Mar Cebichería
Gastón Acurio's casual cevichería serves Lima's best ceviche in lively atmosphere. Fresh seafood prepared daily with creative variations on classic...
El Chinito
Local favorite chifa serves generous portions of Chinese-Peruvian fusion at low prices. The menu includes fried rice, noodles, and sweet...
Anticuchos Doña Pochita
Famous street cart serves Lima's best anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) marinated in spicy sauce. Operating for decades, Doña Pochita...
Café del Museo
Beautiful cafe in courtyard of Museo Larco in Lima serves excellent coffee, teas, and light meals. Surrounded by gardens and...
Maido
Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura's flagship restaurant consistently ranks among Latin America's best, blending Japanese technique with Peruvian ingredients. The Nikkei experience...
Getting Around Peru
Budget Breakdown for Peru
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8-15 (hostel dorm) | $30-50 (private room in mid-range hotel or hostel) | $120-300+ (4-5 star hotels, luxury lodges) |
| Food (per day) | $10-15 (markets, menu del día, street food) | $25-40 (casual restaurants, some mid-range dining) | $80-150 (fine dining, wine) |
| Transportation | $3-8 (local buses, collectivos) | $10-20 (taxis, some intercity buses) | $30-50 (private transfers, taxis) |
| Activities | $5-10 (free attractions, occasional paid entry) | $15-30 (entrance fees, occasional tours) | $50-100+ (private tours, premium experiences) |
| Daily Total | $30-45 | $80-130 | $250-500+ |
Best Time to Visit Peru
Best Season: June to August (dry season, best for Machu Picchu and hiking)
Peak Season: June to August (dry season, best for Machu Picchu and hiking)
Avoid: November to March (rainy season, lower prices, Amazon best time)
Essential Travel Tips for Peru
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Exercise increased caution in Peru due to crime and civil unrest. Petty theft is common in crowded tourist areas. Political protests and roadblocks (paros) can disrupt travel, particularly in highland regions. Drug-facilitated crime has been reported in Lima nightlife areas.
Register with your embassy on arrival — the US STEP program and UK FCDO offer alerts for Peru
Use only registered taxis (apps like Uber, Cabify, or InDriver) — never hail street taxis in Lima
Keep valuables hidden and use anti-theft bags or money belts in crowded markets and buses
Altitude sickness (soroche) is real — acclimatize for 1-2 days in Cusco (3,400m) before hiking
Drink bottled or filtered water only; avoid ice in local restaurants unless confirmed purified
Beware fake police officers — real police never ask for your passport or money on the street
Watch out for distraction scams (spilled sauce, bird droppings) in tourist areas; keep walking
Book Machu Picchu tickets and Inca Trail permits far in advance — quotas fill months ahead
Do not accept food or drinks from strangers; scopolamine (burundanga) drugging does occur
Photograph protests, roadblocks, or military personnel cautiously — avoid confrontations
Use ATMs inside banks or malls during daylight; cover keypad and check for skimming devices
Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation is essential, especially for remote trekking areas
Carry a photocopy of your passport at all times; leave the original in your hotel safe
Dress conservatively when entering churches and indigenous community sites as a sign of respect
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Peru?
The best time to visit Peru is June to August (dry season, best for Machu Picchu and hiking). November to March (rainy season, lower prices, Amazon best time) may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Peru?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Peru for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Peru?
For a comprehensive Peru experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Peru expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $30-45 per day, mid-range $80-130, and luxury $250-500+.