When you think of Peru several images probably immediately spring to mind, including Incas and llamas, women wearing skirts with layers of petticoats and incongruous bowler hats, boys herding llamas high in the Andes, alpaca hats, traditional reed islands on Lake Titicaca, shaman images of the jaguar, caiman and anaconda, the mysterious Nazca lines in the coastal desert, the tropical steamy Amazon rainforest, and the impressive Inca ruins like Macchu Picchu where traditional festivals to the sun are still practised.
Peru’s geography and natural history is second to none. Sit on a bus as you travel to the ancient ruins of Kuelap in the cloud forest, and watch the orange sun set as you drive along single track mountain passes with stunning drops of 100s of metres to take your breath away.
Or take a river boat on one of the tributaries of the Amazon, which starts its 3000 mile journey in Peru, carrying approximately 20% of the worlds fresh water. It takes under a minute for a piranha to strip you to the bone, but surprisingly two thirds of piranha species are vegetarian!
The natural history of Peru is full of astonishing surprises like this, and the rainforest to the east of the country holds fascination to biologists for its immense unspoilt beauty, biodiversity, and being home to animals like the tapir, jaguar, black spider monkeys, capybara, anacondas, caimans and the rare giant river otters.
The spine of the country is the spectacular Andean range, which is worth exploring for it’s stunning scenery, for it’s trekking opportunities and it’s immense cultural value, being the homeland if the Incas.
To the west is the desert coastal strip, one of the driest places on earth, with the mysterious Nazca lines scored into the earth and seen only from the sky, depicting the animals sacred to former cultural horizons.
If you’re a culture buff then you can dance to anything in Peru from Latino pop beats, to samba, to huayno, the dance of the traditional folklorico whilst listening to panpipes, charangos (like guitars) and drums. For those interested in archaeology, many ruins, pottery and artwork can be seen from ancient cultures predating the Incas.
Peru has a population of 27 million people, about half live in the coastal desert strip, and half in the highlands – mostly rural Quechua speaking Indians or mestizos that practice subsistence agriculture. Only 5% live in the Amazon basin, despite it accounting for 60% of the area of Peru.
See people herding llamas in the Andes, growing asparagus in the river deltas of the coast, or collecting Brazil nuts in the rainforests. The main exports are copper, zinc, gold and oil products, coffee, cotton, sugarcane & rice, anchovetas, pilchards and fishmeal. Yet, unofficially, exports of coca probably exceed all these.
Peruvians are lively, friendly people who embrace strangers with hospitality. Whether you want to visit one of the best backpacker destinations, go trekking, meet people of a different culture or learn Spanish, Peru is a fascinating and stimulating country.
View my tips for exploring Peru and start planning a dream trip today.
Peru Travel Resources
These are my favourite companies to use when I travel.
• Search cheap flights with Skyscanner.
• Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
Peru Tours
• Book small group adventure tours with G Adventures or Contiki.
Top Things to Do in Peru
Touring Peru is a life’s dream for many travellers, and no small feat for those who actually manage to make it happen.
Rugged terrain and transport logistics, along with long international flights to even arrive in the nation of the Peru can make following this particular travel dream seem daunting. For those that are willing to do what it takes to make the experience happen, pure magic awaits.
Here are some of the must-see attractions and destinations you shouldn’t miss in Peru.
Walk in the footsteps of the Incas! The challenge of trekking the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu is a feat taken on by the most adventurous of travellers each year. The Incas were an organised civilisation who built many different networks and paths through the Andes called the Qhapaq Ñan.
The most popular of these routes is now known as the Inca Trail. The three day trek passes some of the most incredible scenery in Peru, from ancient Inca ruins to verdant mountains and grazing llamas. Expect to throw yourself into the remote nature of the journey as you camp along points on the trail, saying goodbye to electricity and WI-FI and just enjoying the tranquillity of the Andes.
Of course the jewel at the end of the journey – Machu Picchu – is what makes the whole adventure worth it. As you trek to the sun-gate in time for sunrise, see the mystical mountain appear before your eyes.
I have written a guide with advice whether you should do the Inca trail or Lares trek – check it out.
Sacred Valley
While most famous for its access to Machu Picchu, Peru’s Sacred Valley is home to a number of other archaeological treasures and attractions. The indigenous Pisac Market, the Sacsayhuaman ruins near Cusco and the ruins at Ollantaytambo are among those attractions. Travelers experiencing Peru for the first time should make certain they schedule enough time to experience this part of the country thoroughly.
Lima and Cusco are almost guaranteed to be part of most Peru itineraries. There are lots of tourist attractions and also the food scene in both cities is definitely a superior experience. With local fare and every sort of international cuisine you could hope to try, there’s no reason why every dinner hour shouldn’t be absolutely divine.
Cusco is actually worthy of a mention on its own, due to the variety of Inca sites in and around the city, as well as the unusual architecture that combines elements of the former Inca town with the buildings constructed by the Spanish settlers.
Among the top sights to look out for in the city is the Koricancha Temple, where you can see the foundations of the Inca structure underneath the Convent of Santo Domingo. Gold panels lined the walls in the Inca place of worship, while statues and altars made from the precious metal were also kept here.
All these things were pillaged by the Spanish conquistadors, though. Near Cusco is the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, which was once one of the great Inca enclaves. Some of the huge granite blocks that comprise the walls are awe-inspiring, and even though the fort is in ruins, you can still make out the series of terraces that made up its outer defences.
Iquitos
Looking for a completely different type of outdoor adventure? Then look no further than Iquitos, the port city on the Amazon River and the gateway to Peru’s rainforest.
Trujillo
Trujillo experiences less tourist traffic, but has much to offer. Close to the beach with a lively vibe and a stone’s through from a number of interesting daytrips, Trujillo, Peru is worth a few days of your time should the tour itinerary permit it. One of the most impressive area attractions is the ruined city of Chan Chan, which once served as the capital city to the Chimu Empire.
Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is one of the undoubted highlights of Peru. Here you can see the Yavari, the floating islands of Uros, the Temple of the Moon and it is a stone’s throw from Sillustani. One of the most impressive lakes in the world, and certainly a crowning jewel in the South American tourist crown, Lake Titicaca is a picturesque place to unwind, and perhaps venture across the border into Bolivia.
The Nazca Lines
Another famous site in Peru is the Nazca Lines, which are vast drawings carved into the floor of the desert near Ica. Located south of Lima in the Nazca Desert, what makes these designs particularly astounding is that the shapes can only be clearly discerned from the air due to their incredible size.
To truly appreciate the feat, you need to take an aircraft approximately 1,500 ft into the air and fly over them. The site dates back to 300 BC and wasn’t rediscovered until 1927. There are over 30 drawings etched into the ground, and among them are a picture of a condor, a monkey and a hummingbird. The Nazca Lines are well preserved due to the dry windless weather conditions in the Nazca Desert.
Rainbow Mountain
Vinicunca, or Winikunka, also called Montaña de Siete Colores, Montaña de Colores or Rainbow Mountain, is a mountain in the Andes of Peru with an altitude of 5,200 metres above sea level. This is one of the most distinctive locations in Peru and somewhere you’ve probably seen in a million Instagram photos.
Arequipa
Mummy Juanita, otherwise known as the Inca Ice Maiden was found near Arequipa and now calls the town’s Museo Santuarios Andinos her permanent home.
A major world discovery and arguably one of the best preserved mummies ever found, Juanita the Ice Maiden is one of the main exhibit draws for the area.
That being said, Arequipa has other cultural treasures to offer, not the least of which is its well-preserved colonial architecture and ice-capped volcano views.
Ayacucho
Ayacucho is about mid-way between Lima and Cusco, and contains a number of picturesque churches. This town has a charming, Colonial vibe and fun stopover for those who enjoy elaborate historic churches and mansions.
If you’re looking for a place to take a short break on your quest to Machu Picchu, Ayacucho might be just the ticket. An overnight and a walking tour will likely wrap up the Ayacucho tourist circuit, but it’s scenic enough and right on your way to the Sacred Valley from Lima. Also be sure to do a day trip to the spectacular Lagunas Turquesas (as pictured above).
San Pedro, Peruvian Andes
San Pedro in Peru is nothing like what you would imagine. It is a secluded village high up in the Andes and is four hours outside of Lima. The community mainly consists of farmers, whose ancestors have tended the terraced land around the surrounding mountains for many thousands of years.
Though they are trying to encourage tourism to their community, they are still in the process of creating the facilities. Volunteers from all over the world come here to help the local villagers with their land and assist with building bridges and painting schools.
It is probably one of the most beautiful areas in the world, and far from the beaten track. If you are looking to relax body and mind, then you could try the San Pedro and Ayahuasca retreats that are located in the area. They offer healing and spirit plant journeys designed to heal and regenerate.
Other
If you are lucky to have more time in Peru other places to add to your itinerary include cultural visits with the country’s jungle tribes such as the Ashaninkas, and checking out some of the beautiful national parks such as the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve and the Tambopata Reserve.
Peru Travel Tips
There are several things to know before visiting Peru, and lots of ways to save money. Here are some of my top tips.
Best Time to Visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru is anytime of year. However the dry season in Peru is from May to September, This is good if going to on jungle treks. The rainy season is from the middle of November to March and can make activities such as jungle treks difficult. Some of these activities can be suspended if the weather gets to bad. This however is extremely rare.
Documents and Visas
Travelers coming to Peru usually only need a valid passport and a return ticket. Please check online or with the Peruvian government/tourism board before.
If you wish to stay more than 90 days, you need to renew your Tourist Card (given to you when you enter the country) and visa (stamped into your passport) in the Direction General de Migrations in Lima (Av. España block 7, Breña, Lima) or the main cities.
One thing you have to take in account is to ask for at the moment your tourist card is given to put it for 60 or 90 days, because it is usually given for 30 days. Always carry your passport and tourist card (or a photocopy) when walking by the street or using a public transport in a city.
Budget
It is advisable to bring a student card (i.e. ISIC) to save money in places and services like museums, archaeological sites, buses, hotels and hostels.
Airport Taxes
All passengers leaving Lima on international flights are subject to an airfare tax of US $25.00 which can be paid at any bank agency at the airport. Passengers on domestic flights pay a USA$5.00 airport tax.This tax is payable at all Peruvian airports.
Accommodation
Numerous boutique hotels and hostel hybrids are available in Peru at affordable rates. Dorm-style beds are also available for $5-20 each depending on the location. Privates around around $10-$30 pn.
Machu Picchu on a Budget
Getting up at four to catch the train from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes, followed by a delayed hotel check-in had us entering Machu Picchu in the early afternoon, just three short hours before closing time. With a $40 entry ticket allowing only one entry no matter what time you arrive, we felt short-changed on an experience we had waited a lifetime for. In hindsight, heading up first thing the next morning would have been our best bet.
Group Travel or Independent?
While skipping the packaged tours with large crowds for a more independent travel experience provided greater flexibility, paying for private tours everywhere we wanted to go wasn’t exactly in the travel budget. By joining group tours that were capable of fitting into small busses the size of minivans, we got great prices without missing out on the more personal cultural experiences we were hoping for.
Eating Out
Dining at international restaurants in Peru will cost you markedly more than traditional local fare. So if you can find a way to get comfortable with guinea pig surprise, you’ll save a great deal on your meals. Many hotels include breakfast with their overnight rates, making them an even greater value.
Health
It is advisable NOT to drink tap water in Peru. The Peruvians boil their own water from the fountains or only drink bottled water. City water can, nevertheless, be used in showers and for brushing your teeth without any problems whatsoever.
The ‘Soroche’ or altitude sickness is another point to keep in mind when you travel to countries with high altitude such as Peru. In General, altitudes higher than 3,000 meters, with people who are not accustomed to such heights, can produce a sensation of queasiness and general weakness, accompanied by headaches, as a consequence of a lower concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere.
You just need to take it easy for the first few days and drink lots of water or COCA tea, always consult you a doctor before coming to countries with high altitude.
Vaccinations
There is no need to have an international vaccination certificate, but if you travel to some areas where a disease is present (i.e. malaria, yellow fever). You will need to be vaccinated before going. You can have this done in most of the major cities.
| Vaccine for: | Reccomendation |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for all travelers |
| Typhoid | Recommended for all travelers |
| Yellow fever | Recommended for areas east of the Andes mountains. Required for travelers arriving from a yellow-fever-infected area in Africa or the Americas. |
| Hepatitis B | For travelers who may have intimate contact with local residents, especially if visiting for more than 6 months |
| Rabies | For travelers who may have direct contact with animals and may not have access to medical care |
| Routine immunizations | All travelers should be up-to-date on tetanus-diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, polio, and varicella immunizations |
Safety & Security Tips
• Take with you just the money you will need for your expected daily expenses.
• It is advisable to carry an ID with you at all times. Do not leave Lima without your passport.
• If at possible, keep a picture of your passport which may be useful in case of loss. Should this happen, contact your consulate.
• Do not wear any jewerly / flash expensive items when sightseeing.
• When outside the hotel, always keep a watchful eye on your belongings such as cameras, video equipment and the like.
• Keep your money and valuables at the hotel safe.
• Always agree prices beforehand with drivers, guides and anybody providing services, the cost of taxis, food and / or tours.
• Do not eat food or drink beverages which are not packed / canned or bottled.
• All the foreign embassies and consulates are located in Lima.
Cuisine
Historical evidence indicates that Peruvian Cuisine -a culinary tradition of astonishing diversity- traces back to the time when the inhabitants of the Andean regions of Western South America started the domestication and breeding of animals and hundreds of plant species to incorporate into their diet.
The ancient Peruvians scoured the Pacific Ocean with its cold currents, the Coastal deserts, the high plateaus and mountains of the Andes and the Amazon basin, searching for new edible elements. Undisturbed for thousands of years, Pre-Hispanic Peruvians created a cuisine that was uncomplicated but rich in variety of ingredients, one of bold almost insolent- flavors, and even more daring textures.
With the arrival of the Spanish, in the 15th Century, influences of Mediterranean, Arabic and Black African origin were grafted, as it were, on the main stock of Andean culinary habits. Since then, this enrichment has continued, with successive waves of immigrants from Italy, China, Central Europe, Japan, and most recently, Pakistan.
Present-day Peruvians, the offspring of that diverse mosaic of immigration, have adopted the best ingredients that Peru’s eighty-four life zones (there are 108 such zones on earth)* have to offer. They have borrowed techniques from each other; they have experimented with fusion and have conducted historical research to resuscitate forgotten recipes and lost Andean crops.
The result is of planetary transcendence. Not only for the incredible variety and number of dishes that have been created, or for the display of ingenuity in the elaboration of these recipes, nor for the sheer volume of “new” flavors the world’s palates did not even dream could exist.
The most extraordinary aspect of the reality of Peruvian Cuisine is that it is almost completely off the radar for the majority of the world’s consumers. East Indian, French, Italian, Mexican to cite a few- culinary traditions have justly won a place on the global table. Peruvian Food is yet to come of age. As if watching an iceberg, travelers and food aficionados have only started to fathom the depth of this cultural mystery, judging it merely by its visible tip.
Peruvian Cuisine has the telluric force of a volcano, one that has been asleep for long, and it has recently been awakened. World class cities are witnessing the apparition of restaurants serving Peruvian fare, and its citizens are marveling at the newcomer. A new generation of Peruvians, young people who are very proud of their cultural heritage, have taken to heart the task of making their tradition acknowledged in the world.
Becoming a chef or a cook, professions that were traditionally looked down by seoritos -middle and high class males- is now thought to be a mark of prestige, an exciting career. Drawing from their overseas training and from their exposure to modern cooking trends, these young men and women are adding yet another layer to an already complex structure.
They are blending Inca lost crops, little known tubers, grains and spices, with techniques and styles that come from all corners of the world, nevertheless retaining the quintessential Peruvian flavor.
These people are reaching back to five thousand years of culinary tradition to bring it to the world. The time is ripe to welcome the newcomer to the global table.