THE ULTIMATE PERU TRAVEL GUIDE- Everything You MUST Know

THE ULTIMATE PERU TRAVEL GUIDE

I’m sure you’ve thought about visiting Peru at least once in your life. Rich in history, cuisine, and culture, Peru has something to offer anyone.  Its vast landscapes make it one of the only destinations you can spend time in the rainforest, desert, ocean and mountains, all in the matter of days.  All of this AND MORE can be done on a single trip to Peru! And let me tell you, it’ll be once in a lifetime. This ultimate Peru travel guide will tell you everything you need to know about planning your trip, what to prioritize when you’re there, where to stay, and how to have the best experience!

My trip to Peru was a bucket list item.  Being my first time in South America, I researched for hours planning the best things to do, when to go, and how much it would cost.  It’s safe to say planning a trip to Peru can take some serious time and effort.  That’s why I compiled all my knowledge into this ultimate Peru Travel Guide. Let me help you cross off your bucket list!

FACTS ABOUT PERU

• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN) 1 Sol= $0.30 USD
• Language: 84% of Peruvians speak Spanish. 13% speak Quechua, the language of the Incan Empire. 1.7% speak Aymara, mostly in southern Peru on the border of Bolivia. (The Uros people from the floating islands speak Aymara.)
• Population: 32.5 million
• Capital City: Lima
• Electricity: Standard voltage is 220 vault. You will need a converter with plugs A and C with surge protection.  Use a converter for hot tools. I recommend getting this all in one converter/adapter.
• Visa Requirements:  Most Americans and Europeans will not need a Visa to enter Peru unless they stay for longer than 183 days. To check visa requirements for your country, check here.
• Vaccinations:   All travelers should be up to date on all routine vaccinations, COVID-19, measles, Hepatitis A and B, and rabies. It’s also recommended for most travelers to have Typhoid and Yellow Fever vaccines. Some parts of Peru may recommend you take malaria medication. Check here to see the CDC’s recommended vaccinations for those visiting Peru.
• Credit Cards & ATMS: ATMs are popular in larger cities such as Lima and Cusco. (Most accept Visa and Master Cards.) Credit cards are becoming more popular, but cash is used more often. Always be sure to have some cash on hand.
• Phone & Internet: Wifi is found in most areas of Peru, but the wifi speed is slower in Peru. Plan to be able to check emails, social media, etc. However streaming music or videos may be difficult. If you need to get a local SIM card to avoid surcharges, check here for how to buy and use a SIM card in Peru.

PERU TRAVEL GUIDE- MAP OF PERU’S HIGHLIGHTS

BUCKETLIST WORTHY THINGS TO SEE & DO IN PERU

• Machu Picchu– Tucked into the Andes mountains, this 15^th century Inca citadel is considered one of the wonders of the world.  At the top of most bucket list, visiting Machu Picchu is a must when visiting Peru!
  
• Lima- The capital of Peru is often a quick stop on the way to Cusco.  However, Lima is an underrated gem and one of the top foodie destinations in the world.  It’s stunning cliffside landscapes, culinary scene, and culture are worth checking out for a couple of days.  I recommend staying in the Miraflores district.  Take advantage of free walking tours, and if you have time go to El Parque de las Aguas and see the light show at night.
  
• Floating Islands of Uros– Made from totora reeds, the Uros Islands are floating on the Peruvian side of Lake Tititcaca.  Only a few miles from the shoreline, the islands are home to the Uru or Uros who are indigenous people of Peru and Bolivia.  They create and maintain the 120 floating islands, and continue to live on the lake as they have for 3,500 years.
  
• Rainbow Mountain– Whether it’s scrolling on Instagram or screen saver of a laptop, you’ve most likely seen pictures of rainbow mountain.  Made from the sediment of minerals, the mountain glows a stunning turquoise, purple, and golden color. Many tourists opt to hike to Rainbow Mountain at sunrise, and typically do it as a day trip from Cusco.  
  
• Taquile Island– Located on the Peruvian side of Lake Tititcaca, Taquile Island is home to 2,200 people. Only 2 square miles in size, the island is small and everybody knows everybody. The people of Taquile run their society based on community and the Inca moral ama sua, ama llulla, ama qhilla, which means “do not steal, do not lie, and do not be lazy.”  The men on the island knit, and the women weave. Their textile art is considered some of the most masterful work in all of Peru.

My sister and I had some of these bucket list experiences!

WHEN TO VISIT PERU

Peru is in the southern hemisphere, which means the country experiences their “summer” or dry season December-March and “Winter” or rainy season from May-October. Typically the wettest months are January and February.
Because of its vast landscapes and altitudes, temperatures range drastically in Peru depending on what area you are in.

Year round average temperatures throughout Peru:
-Lima averages between 59-81 Fahrenheit (15-27 Celsius)
-Macchu Picchu averages 66-68 Fahrenheit (19 Celsius) year long.
-Cusco 35-70 (2-21 Celsius)-Puno averages 30-60 Fahrenheight (-1-15 Celsius)
-Iquitos (the amazon) averages 70-90. (21-32 Celsius)-Costal regions will always be cooler.

If you have flexible dates, use Skyscanner to see when the cheapest dates would be to travel. 

Visiting in the off season of December through March means more rain but less expensive.  I went during one of the wettest months, and experienced a lot of rain in Machu Picchu, but besides that still had some beautiful days.

Tip- If you are traveling to Machu Picchu during the wet season, schedule two days there. The fog can often block the iconic view of Machu Picchu. By having more time there, you increase your chances to actually see it!

TRANSPORTATION IN PERU

CAR

• Uber is popular in Lima and Arequipa only.  I often used Uber in Lima and had a good experience.  It cost less than $1.75 USD for short rides.
• Taxis– Since the cabs in Peru do not have meters, always negotiate taxi fares before getting in the car.  Also, be sure to call a reputable taxi company and do not get into a car that claims they are a taxi unless it has a clear TAXI place card with a vehicle number on the side.  Taxis in peru are typically between 20-70 PEN ($10-$22 USD).

A highly reputable taxi service in Lima is Autotaxi Satelital. Their phone number is 01 355 5555.

BUS

Busses are very common in Peru.  Lima has a bus system that runs throughout the city and will always cost less than 3 PEN.  If you are looking to get outside the city, here are some other options:

• BUSBUD– Busbud is a company in Peru that offers busses around Peru.  The most popular route is Lima to Cusco.  It costs roughly 50-70 PEN ($17-$22 USD) and takes about 21 hours.
• Peru Hop is a bus company designed for backpackers. They offer 3 day trips from Lima to Cusco, and 10 day journeys through southern Peru.  These typically range from 535 PEN ($160 USD) to 670 PEN ($200 USD).
• The Route Of The Sun bus trip takes you from Cusco to Puno. The 13 hour bus trek costs $75 USD, which saves you about $100 USD in flight costs. Plus, you get to stop at beautiful destinations along the way such as Pukara and La Raya. Book your tickets here.

TRAIN

BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO MACHU PICCHU!

Trains aren’t as popular in Peru as you would think. You most likely won’t travel on a train in Peru unless you go to Machu Picchu.  The best options for that trek are PeruRail and Inca Rail. These train routes cover Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calients (1 hour and 50 minutes) or Cusco to Aguas Calientes (3 hours and 50 minutes).  These typically cost between $54-$75 USD.

FLY

BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS TO PERU WITH SKYSCANNER.  They always have the best and cheapest options.

Peru has five international airports and 18 airports with domestic service. Most international flights to Peru will fly into Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima.  The most reputable domestic airlines that fly within Peru are LATAM, Avianca, and Star Peru.

Inca Manco Capac International Airport in Julianca, Peru is the closest airport to Lake Titicaca. (About an hour drive from Puno.)

Tip:  If you are short on time, pay a little extra for short domestic flights within Peru.  There are many domestic flights from Lima to Cusco that are a short hour and a half and cost $80-$100 USD.

TOURS IN PERU

Because it’s a popular destination, especially during the tourist season, I highly recommend booking tours in advance in Peru.  Pre-booking will allow you to get your tickets, the cheapest prices, and the best guides.  Well worth the planning!

BOOK THE BEST GUIDES AND TOURS IN PERU HERE.

I also recommend hiring a guide in Peru for big ticket items such as Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and the Floating Islands of Uros.  Guides will take care of transportation, can translate for you, and will help you learn so much more about a place or culture.

MONEY & TIPPING IN PERU

The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN).  Although some larger cities have ATMs and accept cards, you should always have some cash on you while in Peru. Before your trip, make sure your debit card can be used in foreign ATM’s.  Tell your bank your travel plans so your transactions won’t be flagged as fraud.  When you first get to Peru, the Lima airport has ATMs or money exchanges, which is where I suggest converting your money and getting some soles.

In Peru, tipping is encouraged and appreciated.  I highly suggest keeping small coins and bills and exchanging most of your cash for soles.  US dollars may be accepted, but it’s more of a burden for locals to exchange.

TIPPING IN PERU

In Peru, you should tip waiters/waitresses, bartenders, porters, guides, drivers, and bathroom attendants.  You may be able to sometimes leave tips on a credit card, but it’s customary for cash tips, so always make sure to have some on hand!

PERU TRAVEL GUIDE-TIPPING CHART

For guides, tipping amounts can range drastically depending on what you do, how long the tour is, and whether you book a private or group tour. For guides that are excellent, you can thank them by tipping them extra.

Here’s an idea of what to tip in each scenario:
-Group half day guides: 17 PEN ($5-$6) per person 
-Group full day guides: 20-25 PEN ($7-$8) per person   
-Private half day guides: 30-35 PEN ($10-$12)
-Private full day guides  50-60 PEN  ($17-$20)
-Multi day tours such as the Inca Trail: 150 PEN ($45) per person or 35-40 (10-$12) PEN per day.
(In addition to the trekking staff, also tip your guide 60-80 PEN per person $18-$24.)

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT PERU

A trip to Peru can be done on a budget, mid range, or luxury budget.  However, in order to hike the Inca Trail or visit Machu Picchu, those are some big ticket items that will cost some money. 

I would definitely say we stayed within the mid range budget- splurging on domestic flights to save time, but staying in budget friendly hotels. Here is a chart to help give you an idea of the daily breakdown of costs in Peru.

PERU TRAVEL GUIDE- BUDGETING COSTS

On average, a 7 day vacation to Peru costs $1100.00 USD, but Peru can be done on any budget.  In my opinion, $1100.00 USD is a low to mid range cost. This price can easily be surpassed with luxury hotels and flights or budgeted with hostels and public transportation.

WHERE TO STAY IN PERU

I recommend staying in hostels or hotels when in Peru.

Here are the best accommodations for some of the major cities in Peru:

TOP ACCOMMODATIONS IN LIMA

In Lima, the Miraflores district will be the best place to stay. In this part of Lima, everything is safe, walkable, and has a lot to see and do. Plus, it’s right on the ocean! We stayed at the budget friendly Tierra Viva Miraflores Larco and enjoyed our time there. The free breakfast was delicious, and it was a short walk to the grocery store, ocean, and Kennedy Park.

• BUDGET: Tierra Viva Miraflores Larco– Starting at $60 USD/night
• MID-RANGE: ALOFT Miraflores– Starting at $100 USD/ night
• LUXURY: Miraflores Park- A BELMOND HOTEL – Starting at $350 USD/ night

TOP ACCOMMODATIONS IN CUSCO

We stayed at the Hotel Prisma Cusco. It was a great location, and had a beautiful balcony with views of Cusco. It wasn’t the most magnificent room I’ve ever stayed at. The room was a little musty and needed some updating. However, we only really slept in the room so it was fine for a quick place to sleep!

• BUDGET: Hotel Prisma Cusco- Starting at $42 USD/ night
• MID-RANGE: Casa Andina Standard Cusco Catedral– Starting at $94 USD/ night
• LUXURY: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco– Starting at $212 USD/ night

TOP ACCOMMODATIONS IN AGUAS CALIENTES

We stayed at the Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu and had a lovely experience. Even though it’s a budget hotel, the beds were the most comfortable out of our entire stay in Peru! The hotel also provides a free breakfast with river views, and is a close walk to the train and bus stations. I highly recommend staying here!

• BUDGET: Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu– Starting at $45 USD/ night
• MID-RANGE to LUXURY: Hotel Taypikala Machupicchu– Starting at $120 USD/ night

TOP ACCOMMODATIONS IN PUNO

• BUDGET: Casona Plaza Hotel Puno– Starting at $45 USD/ night
• MID-RANGE: GHL Lago Titicaca Puno- Starting at $85 USD/ night
• LUXURY: Dora Titicaca Hotel- Starting at $140 USD/ night

IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL IN PERU?

Crime and safety threats in Peru are not any more common than other major cities.  Although the country has a history of corruption and rebellion, it is far from what it used to be.  You can travel around Peru and feel pretty safe. With that being said, like most places, you must keep a watchful eye for thefts and muggers.  The key to staying safe in Peru is being prepared for potential issues.  

Here are some tips for staying safe in Peru:

• Keep copies and/or photos of your important documents such as passport, ID, bank cards, and travel documents.
• Register your passport with the embassy in Lima.
• Do not carry more cash than what you need for the day.
• Avoid hanging your bag over your chair in restaurants.  Keep it within site.
• Pack away cameras, phones, and other important items when you are not using them.
• Try to avoid distractions.  Sometimes thieves or muggers will work in groups and distract you with an elderly woman falling, dropping change at your feet, or telling you your shoe is untied.
• Use ATM’s only during the day when there are many people around.

If you are a victim to crime ork theft while in Peru, the Policia de Turismo (Tourism Police) should be your first call.  They are established specifically to protect tourists and the tourism industry of Peru.  They speak some english and are trained to handle all crimes against tourists.

A POLTUR office will be able to take reports and contact your embassy in the event of a more serious crime.

FOOD AND DRINK IN PERU

Peru has been recognized as one of the world’s top culinary destinations.  Filled with incredible Michelin star restaurants, street food, and craft beer, it’s making its way to the top of foodie bucket lists across the world!

WANT TO EAT AND DRINK YOUR WAY THROUGH LIMA? BOOK THIS FOOD TOUR!

The average cost for meals in Peru is roughly 15 soles, or $14 USD per day.  Most meals will cost around 21 soles ($6 USD).  However, we all know that can range drastically depending on where you go or what you order.

Here are my recommendations for must try foods and drinks in Peru:

PERUVIAN FOOD

• Cuoy- Cuoy is guinea pig… yup you read that right!  Although it may seem unconventional, this dish as been a staple of Peru’s Andean diet for over 5,000 years.  This was hands down the most expensive dish I had in Peru. Since it is considered a delicacy it costs between $20-30 USD.

• Churros y chocolate- Although originally from Spain, churros y chocolate in Peru are still fantastic.  The hot churros are served with a thick, rich chocolate dipping sauce.  Typically this is a breakfast meal, although I prefer it for dessert!
• Salchipappas- Salchipappas are a classic Peruvian fast food. The dish has a layer of French fries, sausages, and topped with a fried egg.  They often have dipping sauces such as ketchup, chili sauce, mustard and mayonnaise served with them.
• Cecviche–  Originating from Peru, Ceviche is a seafood dish made from raw fish with citrus juices, spices and other toppings such as onions, coriander and salt.  Ceviche is Peru’s national dish, and Lima is the top destination in the world to try it.  So even if you aren’t sure you’ll love it, you should absolutely give it a try!

PERUVIAN DRINK

• Pisco Sour- These are the national drink of Peru, so trying one is a must!  Pisco is a Peruvian type of brandy. An authentic Pisco sour combines Pisco, lime juice, egg whites, bitters and simple syrup.  These cocktails can taste sweet or tart, and are delicious.
• Chica- From the Andes and Amazon region, Chica is considered a corn beer. Chica can be found both fermented and non fermented, in a yellow or purple color depending on the corn used.  My favorite was the non alcoholic chica morada, which tasted like a sweet juice combined with a mulled wine flavor.
• Inca Cola- Created in 1935, this bright yellow soft drink can be found almost anywhere coca cola is found.  It’s main ingredient is lemon verbena, but it tastes almost exactly like bubble gum.  Peruvians swear by their Inca Kola.
• Mate de Coca- Coca tea is an herbal tea infused with raw or dried leaves of the coca plant.  It’s popular in the higher elevations of Peru, since sipping on it can help relieve altitude sickness.
• Muna tea- Muna is a plant that grows in the highlands of Peru.  For this reason, you will often find it in Cusco and Puno.  Referred to as the Andean mint, this tea can be combined with other spices such as black mint and cilantro. It is super refreshing!
• Coffee- Peruvian coffee is a darker roast, vibrant in flavor.  Its strong taste is more similar to espresso than coffee.  Honestly, coffee in Peru is some of the best coffee I have ever tasted, so you HAVE to try it!
• Beer- Lima is stepping up in the craft beer game.  Cristal is their most sold beer, but they have a lot of great local brews. When in Lima, check out Barbarian Brewery!

The do’s and don’t’s of eating and drinking in Peru:

• Do not drink the tap water.  Always drink bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. 
• Avoid uncooked foods that may have been washed with water.
• Do try the local cuisine, even if it’s something you may not typically like!
• Avoid drinking alcohol while adjusting to high altitudes.  Alcohol can affect you way more in these areas.
• Avoid drinks with ice unless you know the ice was made with bottled water.
• Do try the local cuisine, even if it’s something you may not typically like!
• Do not take coca tea or leaves with you out of the country.  In the United States, coca tea is illegal.

Tip: If you stay in Cusco, grab a coffee at The Plaza Cafe in the Plaza De Armas. The patio that overlooks the plaza is the BEST place to have a coffee and people watch!

WHAT TO WEAR/PACK FOR PERU:

Packing for Peru all depends on when you are going and what activities you will be doing. It’s a good idea to always pack layers. Coastal regions will be much cooler year round, and even if you are going into higher temperatures it’s smart to have loose fitting long sleeves to protect yourself from mosquitos.  

Here is a year round packing list of MUST HAVE things for Peru:

• Everyday medicines such as Imodium, Ibuprofen, and Benadryl
• Bug repellant with deet
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Raincoat
• Poncho
• Diamox– some doctors prescribe this medication to preemptively help with altitude sickness
• Crossbody purse
• Passport
• Bathing suit
• Phone
• Camera
• 1 pair flip flops
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Portable charger
• Cash
• Travel adapter
• Suitcase locks
• Pajamas
• Layers- pack short sleeves and long sleeves
• Warm sweater
• Extra socks and undergarments

PERU TRAVEL GUIDE- IMPORTANT TAKEAWAYS

1. Give yourself time to acclimate to the altitude. 
2. Stay in Aguas Calientes.
3. Peru is safe, but prepare yourself going into the trip for scams and thefts.
4. Pre-book tickets, tours, and guides.
5. Drink the coca tea.
6. Make sure to bring your passport to Machu Picchu and ask for a stamp.
7. You can travel to Peru on any budget.
8. Do not leave the country with coca tea.
9. Always have cash.
10. Hiring a guide is useful in most areas.
11. Do not drink the water in Peru.
12. Do not flush toilet paper- there are bins next to toilets to throw used TP in.
13. Get travel insurance.

***

There you have it! You now have all the best tips and information to make your trip to Peru go as smoothly as possible! I hope this Peru travel guide helped get you excited and feel more prepared for everything this incredible country has to offer. You are about to cross off some major bucket list items, so get ready! It will be a trip of a lifetime that you will remember forever.

Have you ever been to Peru? If you have suggestions or comments from your own experiences, comment below and let me know. I’d love to hear from you!

---

BEST PERU TRAVEL RESOURCES:

1. DO NOT FORGET TRAVEL INSURANCE ON YOUR TRIP!
2. BOOK FLIGHTS WITH SKYSCANNER
3. BOOK ACCOMMODATIONS WITH BOOKING.COM or HOTELS.COM
4. BOOK ACTIVITIES AND TOURS WITH GET YOUR GUIDE

I use World Nomads. Their website is super easy to navigate and claims are simple to submit.  This coverage will keep you protected from anything from “oh no” moments, flight cancellations, and even lost luggage! Honestly- worth every penny!

Need help planning your trip to PERU? Go to my travel resources page for my favorite travel companies to save you money, time, and headaches!

---

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links.  If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will earn a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend companies and products I use.

PIN THIS BLOG POST!