More Information on Traveling to Peru
Key experiences on a Peru holiday
Peru is the adventure you’ve been waiting for. Picture yourself hiking the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, surrounded by misty cloud forests and stunning mountain views, before reaching the awe-inspiring ancient citadel. Wander through Cusco, where vibrant streets mix colonial charm with Incan history, and explore the Sacred Valley, home to ancient ruins like Ollantaytambo and Moray. For a more peaceful escape, visit Lake Titicaca’s floating reed islands, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Uros people. Dive into the Amazon Rainforest for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness diverse wildlife up close. From thrilling treks to cultural discoveries and breathtaking landscapes, Peru promises unforgettable experiences you don’t want to miss.
Top destinations to visit in Peru
Peru boasts a wide range of must-visit destinations, each offering its own unique experiences. Machu Picchu is the crown jewel, a stunning Incan citadel nestled in the breathtaking Andean peaks. Cusco, the former Incan capital, blends rich history with vibrant culture and colonial charm. The Sacred Valley, with sites like Ollantaytambo and Moray, reveals the ingenuity of ancient agricultural terraces. Lake Titicaca offers peaceful beauty, with the unique floating Uros Islands made entirely of reeds. For nature lovers, the Amazon Rainforest is a chance to explore one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. The mysterious Nazca Lines and the serene Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest, offer even more to discover. Each of these places makes Peru a journey you’ll never forget.
For more information, check out our guide on the best places to visit in Peru.
Top tour activities in Peru
Take a hiking tour along the Inca Trail, leading you through stunning landscapes to the iconic Machu Picchu. Discover the Sacred Valley on a cultural tour, visiting ancient sites like Ollantaytambo and vibrant markets in Pisac. For an adrenaline rush, try the sandboarding and dune buggy tour in Huacachina, or enjoy a boat tour on Lake Titicaca, visiting the floating Uros Islands. Embark on a wildlife tour in the Amazon, spotting monkeys and pink dolphins, or hike through Colca Canyon for incredible views and soaring condors. For a unique experience, take a Nazca Lines flight tour to see Peru’s mysterious geoglyphs.
Check out our guide on things to do in Peru for more detailed information.
Best time to visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season from May to September, especially for hiking and exploring the Andes. This period offers clear skies and mild temperatures, making it ideal for trekking the Inca Trail or visiting Machu Picchu. March to April and October to November are also great, as the weather is still pleasant but with fewer tourists. The rainy season, from December to March, brings lush landscapes, though some treks may be more challenging due to rainfall. The Amazon Rainforest can be visited year-round, but the dry season (from June to October) offers better accessibility.
For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Peru.
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Optimal duration to explore Peru
To fully experience Peru, plan for at least 10 to 14 days. This allows time to explore Lima’s culinary scene, visit the Sacred Valley, and take the iconic Inca Trail or train to Machu Picchu. With extra days, you can add a boat tour on Lake Titicaca, a wildlife adventure in the Amazon Rainforest, or a Nazca Lines flight tour. If you are short on time, a week-long trip can cover Peru’s highlights, but for a deeper dive into its landscapes, history and culture, two weeks is ideal.
For more duration ideas, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Peru.
Packing essentials for a trip to Peru
Since Peru’s diverse landscapes range from mountains to jungles, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the ruins and city streets. Sunscreen and a hat are essential, especially in high-altitude areas like Cusco and Machu Picchu. Bring layers, as temperatures vary from the chilly Andes to the humid Amazon. A rain jacket is useful, especially during the wet season. If you are heading to Lake Titicaca or Colca Canyon, pack warm clothing for cold nights. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and be eco-friendly. And, of course, bring a swimsuit for hot springs, jungle lodges or beach days along the coast.
Sustainable travel practices when visiting Peru
You can always make sustainable choices while traveling in Peru. For example, you can support local businesses, choose ethical tour operators, and avoid single-use plastics by carrying a reusable water bottle. Also, opt for a reef-safe sunscreen when visiting coastal areas and be mindful of fragile ecosystems like the Amazon Rainforest and Sacred Valley. You can also choose a sustainable travel partner for your holiday, such as Bookmundi, where we carbon offset every tour booked with us. Similarly, flying sustainable airlines and supporting local organizations like CONAPAC and Ecoan, which work to protect Peru’s environment and indigenous communities, also help promote responsible tourism in the country.