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Peru Travel Guide

Arturo Merrill -
June 27, 2025

Overview

Peru is a land of bucket-list adventures, where ancient ruins meet breathtaking landscapes. The star attraction is Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel hidden in the Andes, but there’s so much more to explore from the colonial charm of Cusco to the floating islands of Lake Titicaca and the vast Amazon rainforest. Food lovers will rave about Lima’s world class cuisine, while thrill seekers can trek the Inca Trail or sandboard in the Huacachina desert. Whether you’re chasing history, nature, or flavor, Peru delivers an unforgettable experience.

Quick Facts About Peru

Language

Spanish (official), Quechua (Indigenous language)

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN).

Visa

Visa free for most Western nationalities (up to 90–180 days).

Power Plugs

Type A / C (US and European standards)

Religion

Predominantly Roman Catholic.

Capital

Lima

Climate

Varies by region coastal (mild), Andes (cool to cold), Amazon (hot & humid). Best time to visit: May–September (dry season).

Apps

Uber (Lima/Cusco), Maps.me (offline maps for hiking), iPerú (official tourism info).

Flights Information for Peru

Most international travelers arrive via:

  • Lima (LIM) Main hub with direct flights from the US, Europe, and Latin America.
  • Cusco (CUZ) Best for Machu Picchu (often requires a connection from Lima).
  • Arequipa (AQP) & Iquitos (IQT) For exploring the Andes or Amazon.

Pro Tip: Use Skyscanner to compare flights. LATAM and Avianca are the major airlines for domestic routes (Lima to Cusco takes ~1 hour).

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Peru

Peru is generally safe, but petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) is common in crowded areas like Lima’s Miraflores or Cusco’s markets. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Avoid flashing valuables (phones, cameras) in public.
  • Use official taxis (or Uber in Lima/Cusco) to avoid unmarked cars.
  • Altitude sickness is real in Cusco (3,400m) . Take it slow the first few days.
  • Scams: Be wary of fake tour operators (book through reputable agencies).

Climate

Peru’s weather varies dramatically:

  • Coast (Lima): Mild and humid (15–25°C year-round). December–April is warmest.
  • Andes (Cusco, Machu Picchu): Cool days (15–20°C), cold nights (near 0°C). Dry season (May–Oct) is best for trekking.
  • Amazon (Iquitos): Hot & humid (25–35°C) with frequent rain.

Best time to visit? May–September (dry season) for hiking and clear skies.

Budget

Peru is affordable, but costs rise near tourist hotspots like Machu Picchu. Rough estimates:

  • Budget hostels: Approx 30–60 PEN ($8–15 USD) per night.
  • Mid-range hotels: Approx 150–300 PEN ($40–80).
  • Local meals (menú del día): Approx 10–20 PEN ($3–5).
  • Restaurant meals (Lima/Cusco): Approx 40–80 PEN ($10–20).
  • Train to Machu Picchu (round-trip): Approx ~$100–150 USD (book early!).

Pro Tip: Bargaining is accepted in markets (but not in restaurants/stores).

Other Essential Tips:

Transport:

  • Buses (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa) are comfortable for long distances (Lima to Cusco: ~20 hours).
  • Domestic flights save time (Lima to Cusco: 1 hour).

Cultural Etiquette:

  • Tipping: 10% in restaurants (check if service is included).
  • Greetings: A handshake or cheek kiss (among friends) is common.

Must-Try Foods:

  • Ceviche (Peru’s national dish).
  • Lomo saltado (stir-fried beef).
  • Pisco sour (signature cocktail).

Final Thoughts

Peru is a dream destination for history buffs, foodies, and adventurers alike. Whether you’re marveling at Machu Picchu, tasting award winning cuisine in Lima, or cruising the Amazon, this country will leave you awestruck.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is altitude sickness a big issue in Cusco?
Yes, but drinking coca tea, resting, and avoiding alcohol the first day helps.
Do I need to book Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Yes! Tickets (especially for Huayna Picchu) sell out months ahead.
Is tap water safe to drink?
No stick to bottled water (or use purification tablets in the Amazon).

Arturo Merrill

Editor in Chief & General Manager

Arturo Merrill is the Editor in Chief of Travel and Diaries, where he leads the destination guide program covering countries across Africa, Asia, and beyond. He sets the site's editorial standards: every guide published under his direction is checked against official government sources visa policy, park authority fees, and health entry requirements before it goes live, and reviewed on a regular update cycle so prices and rules stay current. His most recent research trip took him to East Africa in 2025. Arturo's goal for every guide is simple: the practical details most guides skip the community work morning that closes shops in Rwanda, the plastic-bag rule that catches travelers at the airport explained before you land, not after.

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