Peru Overview

The best time to visit Peru is between the months of May and September. Corresponding with the dry season, temperatures in the country at this time hover between 16°C to 22°C. But more importantly, traveling to Peru during this time means that there is little fear of getting caught in the country’s torrential monsoon. Another less popular but still good time to visit Peru is between October and December. A shoulder period between dry and monsoon seasons, the climate during this time of year is generally fine, although skies are cloudier and you might have to dodge the odd shower. The wettest months are January and February. It is still possible to visit destinations such as Lake Titicaca during the rainy season, but the Inca Trail is closed for travelers. Find more information here.

Peru is not expensive for travelers and we recommend it as a top pick for visitors on a budget. Most travelers can get by on USD 30 to USD 40 per day, including transport, accommodation, and food. Tackling the Inca Trail and exploring Machu Picchu are must-do attractions but also relatively costly. ATMs are the quickest way to withdraw neuvos soles, as the country’s currency is called, on the road and visa cards are easily accepted. Many ATMs have an English language option, too. They can be found in some airports, inside banks, and as stand-alone units in major towns and cities. If you are looking for other destinations to visit on a budget, find more information here.

Given its wealth of attractions, there are many reasons why you should consider Peru trips that last between ten days and two weeks. This will give you enough time to see top-rated sites, such as Manu National Park, while also discovering the country’s history and culture in more far-flung and as-yet-unknown destinations. You can still take in a number of attractions even if you can only spare one week in Peru, however, the time constraint would mean that you will have to limit your exploration to a destination or two. For a more detailed rundown, check out our travel guide on how many days to spend in Peru.

Spanish is the most-spoken European language in Peru, alongside several local languages like Quechan and Aymara. Those involved in the tourism industry and those in popular destinations such as Lima and Cusco will speak some English, while guides leading tours for English-speaking travelers will have a good hold of the language. However, knowing a few words of Spanish is always useful.

A cheap meal at a street food stall can be had for a few US dollars, while a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant will set you back by around USD 18. A cup of coffee or soft drinks costs only USD 1 in most places, while a bottle of local beer can be bought for slightly less than USD 2. Ceviche (marinated raw fish) is a common dish on Peru’s Pacific coast, while slow-cooked beef and shredded chicken served in a creamy sauce (aji de gallina) are also equally popular. For something a little more unusual, try cuy, a local delicacy prepared with guinea pigs. Read our article on the best Peruvian foods.