Peru Travel Guide

From the mist-enshrouded ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant rhythms of Lima's culinary scene, Peru tells a story that stretches across centuries. Whether visitors are wandering the sacred valleys of the Andes or floating along the winding Amazon River, the destination invites exploration at every turn, and magic in every moment. Adventure awaits in this unforgettable corner of South America.

Best time to visit Peru

The most-active tourist season runs from May to October, and it peaks in July and August. Winter (June to September) is the best time for the Inca Trail, given the wonderful visibility travellers can expect during clear, sunny days. This is also a good time to visit the Amazon basin, as there are fewer mosquitoes and the animals stay closer to the water, making them easier to spot.

What to see in Peru

-Manu National Park, located in the isolated Amazonian region of Madre de Dios, is the best place to see tropical wildlife in Peru.

-Huacachina is an increasingly popular desert resort village. Built around a natural lake, it offers fun, dune-related activities such as buggy rides and sandboarding.

-Manorca boasts fine beaches and good surfing conditions, and is a famous stop on the South American backpacking trail.

-Lima has a slightly seedy reputation, but is home to some great museums and awe-inspiring cathedrals. Its restaurant scene is to be savoured.

What to do in Peru

-The Inca Trail, a rewarding hike to the legendary ancient city of Machu Picchu, is an absolute must for first-time visitors to Peru.

-Cruise the waters of Lake Titicaca.

-See the Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs whose origin and purpose remain a mystery to this day.

-Hike through the Colca Canyon, a spectacular gorge where enormous Andean condors soar overhead.

Getting to Peru

Cheap flights to Peru are easy to find from the US, with direct options available from cities such as New York, Miami and Los Angeles. UK travellers typically need a connecting flight, though LATAM Airlines now offers a direct service from London Heathrow to Lima. Flight times to Lima vary: around eight hours from North America and 14 to 18 hours from Europe, depending on layovers.

Read

The Conquest of the Incas by John Hemming and Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter by Mario Vargas Llosa.

Watch

The Dancer Upstairs (2002) and Touching the Void (2003).

Eat

Anticuchos (kebabs made from marinated beef heart), ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice), or, for the adventurous, the Andean delicacy cuy (guinea pig).

Drink

Pisco Sour, a drink made from the unique grape brandy of the region, and emoliente, a viscous herbal tea.

What to buy

Brightly-dyed alpaca woollen products, carved figurines, jewellery and traditional musical instruments such as pan flutes (zamponas) and skin drums.

What to pack

Visitors who are attempting the Inca Trail should pack warm clothes and good quality, worn-in walking shoes. Anyone who plans to spend some time in the Amazon should pack lightweight (and preferably long-sleeved) garments and effective mosquito repellent.

Did you know?

-Avocado pears (palta) are originally from Peru.

-The Peruvian root known as Huanarpo Macha is what Viagra is made from.

-There are more species of bird in Peru (1,700) than in any other country.

A final word

Famous Machu Picchu is only one of the wonders that adventurous explorers will find in beautiful and mysterious Peru.