James Wolfe
Peru is a country that has fascinated travelers for centuries. From its iconic Incan ruins to its Amazonian wilderness, and from its bustling cities to its luxury hotels, Peru offers a perfect balance of culture, nature, and comfort.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Peru, from how to get there, to the best cultural activities, to the most comfortable places to stay.
How to Get to Peru
International Access
Peru is accessible from many international hubs, with Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima serving as the country’s main gateway. Direct flights from North America, Europe, and South America make arrival seamless.
Domestic Transportation
Once in Peru, domestic flights connect Lima to Cusco, Arequipa, and Iquitos. Alternatively, Peru’s luxury buses offer panoramic views, reclining seats, and onboard meals, making overland journeys part of the adventure.
Peru’s Rich Cultural Heritage
Incan Landmarks
Machu Picchu is the star attraction, but Cusco and the Sacred Valley are equally captivating. Explore cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant craft markets that reflect the blend of Incan and Spanish history.
Festivals and Traditions
Peru’s festivals showcase living culture. Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, takes place every June in Cusco, celebrating Incan traditions with parades, music, and rituals. Regional festivals highlight colorful costumes and folk dances, adding depth to your cultural immersion.
Peru’s Natural Wonders
The Amazon Rainforest
Nearly 60 percent of Peru is rainforest, accessible from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado. Pink dolphins, exotic birdlife, and eco-lodges provide unforgettable adventures. Indigenous communities also share insight into traditional ways of life.
Lake Titicaca
As the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca offers boat tours to floating reed islands crafted by the Uros people. It’s a cultural and scenic highlight of the Andes.
Coastal Adventures
Along Peru’s coast, the Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands offer desert-ocean landscapes teeming with sea lions, penguins, and migratory birds, earning the nickname “Poor Man’s Galapagos.”
Luxury and Comfort in Peru
Boutique Hotels and Resorts
From five-star properties in Cusco to wellness retreats in the Sacred Valley, Peru blends luxury with authenticity. Many hotels feature spas, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the Andes.
Luxury Train Journeys
The Belmond Hiram Bingham provides an elegant journey to Machu Picchu with live music and fine dining. For extended luxury, the Belmond Andean Explorer links Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa in a sleeper train experience.
Amazonian Eco-Lodges
Even deep in the jungle, eco-lodges combine adventure with comfort. Private terraces, guided tours, and gourmet meals ensure guests can enjoy nature without sacrificing relaxation.
Peruvian Cuisine
Culinary Capital Lima
Lima stands as the gastronomic hub of South America, home to globally ranked restaurants. Ceviche, Peru’s national dish, is a must-try with its zesty lime flavors and fresh seafood.
Highland Flavors
In the Andes, traditional dishes like quinoa soup, stuffed peppers, and alpaca steak reflect Peru’s agricultural traditions.
Street Food Delights
Street vendors offer tasty bites such as anticuchos (grilled skewers) and picarones (sweet fried rings). Pair meals with chicha morada or a Pisco Sour for a true taste of Peru.
Practical Tips for Visiting Peru
Best Time to Visit
May through September is the dry season, perfect for exploring the Andes and Machu Picchu. The Amazon is lush year-round, though November to April brings more rain.
Adjusting to Altitude
Cusco and Machu Picchu are at high elevations. Spend a day in the Sacred Valley before strenuous hikes to acclimate.
Language and Currency
Spanish is widely spoken, with Quechua and Aymara in many regions. The Peruvian sol (PEN) is the local currency, though credit cards are common in cities. Carry cash for rural areas and markets.
Why Peru Should Be Your Next Destination
Peru invites travelers to connect with history, marvel at nature, and indulge in comfort. Whether trekking through the Andes, savoring world-class cuisine, or relaxing in a luxury lodge, every moment creates lifelong memories.
With its seamless blend of culture, natural wonders, and cushy stays, Peru is more than a trip, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
