Peru – Destination Guide

Peru is a land of ancient civilizations, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, offering everything from the towering Andes to the lush Amazon Rainforest. Whether you’re hiking to Machu Picchu, exploring the vibrant streets of Lima, or spotting wildlife in the Amazon, Peru is a destination filled with adventure, history, and rich cultural traditions.

Main Locations

🏛 Machu Picchu & The Sacred Valley – The iconic lost city of the Incas, surrounded by cloud forests and stunning Andean scenery. Nearby, the Sacred Valley is home to picturesque towns like Ollantaytambo and Pisac.

🏙 Cusco – The former capital of the Inca Empire, now a UNESCO-listed city blending colonial architecture, lively markets, and vibrant nightlife.

🏜 Nazca & Huacachina – The mysterious Nazca Lines, best viewed from the air, and the oasis of Huacachina, where you can go sandboarding on towering dunes.

🌿 Amazon Rainforest – Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado serve as gateways to Peru’s untouched Amazon, home to incredible biodiversity and indigenous cultures.

🏔 Huaraz & The Cordillera Blanca – A paradise for trekkers and climbers, featuring turquoise glacial lakes, towering peaks, and breathtaking mountain trails.

🏝 Lake Titicaca – The world’s highest navigable lake, where you can visit the floating Uros Islands and experience Andean culture.

🏞 Colca Canyon – Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, this dramatic landscape is home to soaring condors and scenic hiking trails.

🌊 Lima & The Pacific Coast – Peru’s capital, known for its incredible food scene, coastal views, and colonial architecture. Nearby, Paracas National Reserve offers stunning desert-meets-ocean landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Highlights

🦙 Machu Picchu & The Inca Trail – Hike the legendary trail or take the scenic train to one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.

🌄 Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) – A breathtaking, multicolored mountain nestled in the Andes, accessible via a challenging but rewarding trek.

🐍 Amazon Jungle Adventures – Stay in a jungle lodge or take a river cruise to explore Peru’s incredible Amazon ecosystem.

🎭 Cusco’s Culture & Festivals – Experience traditional Andean music, dance, and festivals like Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun.

🏄‍♂️ Surf & Sand Dunes – Ride the waves in Mancora or go sandboarding and dune buggying in Huacachina.

🦅 Colca Canyon & Condors – Witness the majestic Andean condors soaring over this dramatic canyon landscape.

🍽 Peruvian Cuisine – Enjoy world-famous dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and the refreshing pisco sour.

Arrival Airports & Transport

• Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) – The main international airport, located in Lima.

• Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) – The gateway to Cusco and Machu Picchu.

• Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) – Best for accessing Arequipa and Colca Canyon.

• Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT) – The main airport for reaching the Amazon city of Iquitos.

🚆 Getting Around

• Domestic Flights – Quick and efficient for long-distance travel (Lima to Cusco, Arequipa, or Iquitos).

• Buses – The most affordable way to travel, with luxury sleeper options for long journeys.

• Trains – Used mainly for reaching Machu Picchu via the PeruRail or Inca Rail services.

• Taxis & Ride-Sharing – Uber is available in Lima and Cusco, but always negotiate prices with regular taxis beforehand.

Practical Information

💰 Currency – Peruvian Sol (PEN). US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas.

💳 Cash vs. Card – Credit cards are accepted in major cities, but cash is preferred in rural areas and for markets. ATMs are widely available.

🗣 Languages – Spanish is the official language, with Quechua and Aymara spoken in the Andes. Basic English is spoken in tourist areas.

💸 Tipping – Not mandatory but appreciated. Restaurants: 10% if service isn’t included. Tour guides: $5–$10 per day.

🔌 Power Outlets – Type A & C (same as the US and Europe, 220V). Bring an adapter if needed.

📱 SIM/eSIM – Claro, Movistar, and Entel offer good coverage. eSIMs are also available for convenience. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

Visa/Entry Requirements

• Many nationalities (including US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

• A yellow fever vaccination is recommended if traveling to the Amazon region.

Food & Cuisine

🥩 Lomo Saltado – Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries, often served with rice.

🐟 Ceviche – Peru’s national dish, featuring raw fish marinated in citrus, chili, and onions.

🥔 Papa a la Huancaína – Sliced potatoes covered in a creamy, spicy cheese sauce.

🌶️ Rocoto Relleno – A stuffed spicy pepper dish from Arequipa.

🍹 Pisco Sour – The iconic cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, egg white, and bitters.

🌽 Chicha Morada – A refreshing, sweet purple corn drink.

Why Visit?

Peru is a dream destination for history lovers, adventure seekers, and foodies alike. Whether you’re trekking to ancient ruins, diving into the Amazon jungle, or enjoying world-class cuisine, this South American gem offers an unforgettable journey through culture, nature, and tradition.