Peru Travel Guide (South America)

If you’re planning to visit South America, Peru is definitely a destination worth considering. With its rich culture, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating country. From hiking through the Andes to exploring ancient ruins, here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Peru.

Introduction to Peru

Peru is a country located in South America, bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, rainforests, and coastline, as well as its ancient ruins and rich cultural heritage. The capital city of Peru is Lima, which is also the largest city in the country.

List of Places to Visit in Peru

Peru has many attractions that are worth visiting, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Peru has a rich history and culture, and there are many museums and historical sites that you can visit to learn more about the country’s past. Some of the most popular attractions include:

Machu Picchu: This ancient Incan city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cusco: This historic city was the capital of the Inca Empire and is home to many museums and historical sites.
Nazca Lines: These mysterious geoglyphs are located in the Nazca Desert and can only be seen from above.
Huaca de la Luna: These ancient ruins are located near Trujillo and offer a glimpse into the Moche civilization.

Natural Attractions of Peru: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Peru is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. From snow-capped mountains to vast deserts, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Some of the top attractions include:

The Andes: This mountain range offers some of the best hiking and trekking opportunities in the world, including the famous Inca Trail.
Lake Titicaca: This lake is located on the border between Peru and Bolivia and is the largest lake in South America.
Colca Canyon: This canyon is located in southern Peru and is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.
Amazon Rainforest: The Peruvian Amazon is home to an incredible array of wildlife and is the largest rainforest in the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Peru

Peru is a popular destination for hikers and bikers, with many beautiful trails to explore. Some of the top routes include:

Inca Trail: This famous trail takes you to Machu Picchu and offers stunning views of the Andes along the way.
Santa Cruz Trek: This trek is located in the Cordillera Blanca and is known for its beautiful valleys and stunning mountain peaks.
Ausangate Trek: This trek takes you to the Ausangate mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region.

Best Things to Do in Peru: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for activities to do in Peru, there’s no shortage of options. Some of the best things to do include:

Surfing in Mancora: The beach town of Mancora is a popular destination for surfers, with some of the best waves in South America.
Paragliding in Lima: Lima’s coastline offers some of the best paragliding opportunities in the world.
Sandboarding in Huacachina: Huacachina is a desert oasis located near Ica and is a popular destination for sandboarding.
Lima city tour: Take a guided tour of Lima and visit the historic center, the Miraflores neighborhood, and the bustling Larcomar shopping center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Peru

If you have a week to spend in Peru, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1-2: Visit the historic city of Cusco and explore the ancient ruins of the Inca Empire.
Day 3-4: Go on a trek to Machu Picchu and explore the ancient city.
Day 5-6: Visit the Colca Canyon and go on a tour to see the famous condors in flight.
Day 7: Explore Lima, including the historic center, Miraflores neighborhood, and the Larcomar shopping center.

Food and Drink Scene of Peru

Peruvian cuisine is becoming increasingly popular around the world, thanks to its unique blend of indigenous and colonial influences. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

Ceviche: Raw fish marinated in lime juice and served with onions, sweet potatoes, and corn.
Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, served with rice.
Aji de Gallina: Shredded chicken in a spicy sauce made with yellow aji peppers, milk, and bread.
Pollo a la Brasa: Roast chicken marinated in a blend of spices and served with french fries and salad.

Local Beverages

Pisco Sour: Peru’s national drink is made with pisco, lime juice, sugar, egg whites, and bitters.
Chicha: A traditional Andean drink made from fermented corn.
Inca Kola: A bright yellow soft drink that is very popular in Peru.

Where to Stay in Peru: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Peru has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the top options include:

Belmond Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge: This hotel is located next to Machu Picchu and offers stunning views of the ancient ruins.
Backpacker La Bo’M: This hostel is located in the Miraflores neighborhood of Lima and is a popular destination for budget-minded travelers.
Hotel Mancora Beach: This beachfront hotel is located in the town of Mancora and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

What to Buy in Peru: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Peru is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, as well as its unique textiles, jewelry, and ceramics. Some of the top souvenirs to bring home include:

Alpaca wool products: Sweaters, scarves, and blankets made from the soft and warm wool of the alpaca.
Peruvian textiles: Colorful, hand-woven textiles made by indigenous artisans.
Silver jewelry: Beautiful, intricate jewelry made by skilled Peruvian artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Peru

Peru is a country with a rich cultural heritage and many traditions that are still practiced today. Some of the customs and traditions you may encounter include:

Inti Raymi: This is a festival that takes place in Cusco every year on June 24th to celebrate the winter solstice.
Día de los Muertos: This is a holiday that takes place on November 1st and 2nd to honor the dead.
Pachamama: This is a belief in Mother Earth as a benevolent goddess who protects and nurtures all living things.

Best Time to Visit Peru

The best time to visit Peru depends on what you want to do and see. Generally, the dry season (May-September) is the best time to visit, as there is less rainfall and more temperate weather. However, if you want to see the Amazon rainforest or visit the highlands during the potato harvest, then the rainy season (December-April) may be a better time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Peru

DO:

Try the local cuisine, including ceviche and pisco sours.
Visit Machu Picchu and Cusco to experience the rich history and culture of Peru.
Take a guided city tour in Lima to learn more about the country’s capital.

DON’T:

Drink tap water, as it may be unsafe to drink.
Leave your belongings unattended in public places.
Photograph people without their permission.

Safety and Health

When traveling to Peru, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and health.

Safety in Peru

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuable items.
Use reputable taxi services and avoid traveling alone at night.

Health in Peru

Make sure to get vaccinated before traveling to Peru.
Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid getting sick.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites to prevent the spread of diseases like Zika and dengue fever.

Getting to Peru: Transportation Options and Logistics

Peru is well-connected to other countries in South America and beyond, with several international airports and bus stations. Some options for getting to Peru include:

Airports Near Peru

Lima International Airport: Located in the country’s capital city, this is the largest airport in Peru and is served by several major airlines.
Cusco International Airport: This airport is located near the city of Cusco and is the main gateway to Machu Picchu.

Bus Stations Near Peru

Tacna Bus Station: This bus station is located near the border with Chile and is a popular destination for travelers coming from Chile.
Arequipa Bus Station: This station is located in the city of Arequipa and offers connections to many destinations within Peru.

Other Options

Cruise ships: Some cruise lines offer trips to Peru, often stopping in cities like Lima and Mancora.
Trains: The Andean Explorer is a luxury train that runs between Cusco and Puno, offering stunning views of the Andes along the way.

How to Get Around in Peru

In Peru, there are several options for getting around, including:

Buses: There are many bus companies that offer connections between cities and towns in Peru, with both budget and luxury options available.
Taxis: Taxis are a convenient way to get around cities like Lima, but make sure to use a reputable service and agree on a fare before getting in.
Trains: The train is a fun and scenic way to travel between cities like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Where to Go Next from Peru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Peru is located in a prime location for exploring other destinations in South America, including:

Bolivia: This neighboring country offers stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, including the famous Salar de Uyuni salt flats.
Chile: This long, narrow country is home to mountains, deserts, and coastline, as well as several vibrant cities.
Ecuador: This country is known for its stunning natural scenery, including the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon rainforest.

Conclusion

Peru is a fascinating and diverse country with plenty to offer travelers of all kinds. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant culture of Lima, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. Use this guide to plan your perfect trip to Peru and make the most of every moment.