Peru

Travel Guide

Traveling in Peru

Peru offers a little bit of everything for the adventurous traveler – whether trekking among the peaks of Machu Picchu, paragliding off the edge of Lima, or paddling downriver in the awe-inspiring Amazon Rainforest. You can be exploring rainbow-colored mountains one day and be trekking across deserts the next, all while enjoying rich culture, incredible food, and a warm welcome from the locals.

How to Plan Your Trip to Peru

Follow our Peru travel guides to plan your once-in-a-lifetime trip! Start with the Best Things to Do in Peru to get an idea of where you’d like to visit before diving into our specific destination guides like Machu Picchu and Lima. If you’re planning a longer trip, read our Ultimate 3-Week Itinerary, which includes all the main highlights of the country and takes the hassle out of your Peru holiday planning.

Best Time to Visit Peru

The climate in Peru varies between its regions, so it can be visited year-round. Here’s a summary of the weather in Peru so you can plan the perfect trip!

Winter (May-October): These months see the dry season arrive in the mountains. It’s also the best time to visit Peru for an epic backpacking trip around the country, where you’ll have clear sunny days in most areas for sightseeing and exploring. This is also a great time to visit Machu Picchu, as you will have the best visibility to experience the ancient Incan city. Although it is relatively warm during the day, at night, temperatures can drop below freezing in the mountains, so pack plenty of layers.

If you’re visiting the Amazon during this time, there will be clearer days with slightly less rain, and the water levels are low, making it easier for trekking.

Tip: Try to avoid the peak tourist months of July and August when it will be most crowded.

Summer (November-April): The Peruvian summer is the best time to visit Peru cities like Lima and the coastal areas, as it’s much warmer (up to 35°C / 95°F), with little chance of rain. Spend the balmy days on the beach and explore what the capital has to offer.

This time is also the wet season in the Amazon, when the jungle is at its most lush, and there is a higher chance of seeing wildlife. The water level is high, meaning most waterways are navigable by boat — great for tours!

Coastlines and Beaches in Peru

There are many hidden gems on Peru’s coastline waiting to be explored! Although not known for its beaches, there are over 1,500 miles of rugged Pacific coast, bordered by misshapen cliffs and desert-like landscapes.

One of the most famous coastal areas to discover on your Peru holiday borders the city of Lima. Head to Miraflores or Barranco for the perfect mix of urban life and beach relaxation; simply chill on the sand, walk along the promenade, or make the most of the strong winds by kitesurfing.

For something more natural, head for the Paracas Peninsula, a sandy moon-like landscape famous for the Paracas National Reserve. It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Peru — ideal for spotting various types of birds, including the flamingo.

Alternatively, the more adventurous travelers should consider the wavy coast of Máncora, a party town popular with surfers and kitesurfers who come to enjoy the great swell and high winds. There’s even the option for divers, both advanced and beginners, to get out into the ocean and make the most of Peru’s marine life.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or wildlife, Peru’s coastline and beaches offer something surprising for everyone. Follow our Peru travel guides to make the most of the country’s coastal havens.

Food, Culture, and Religion in Peru

Peru has a rich cultural heritage with so much to experience in terms of food, art, and religious festivals. Dive into our Peru travel guides to discover more about this fascinating country!

Food: Peru has an incredibly diverse cuisine, with influences from Europe, Africa, and Asia based around traditional indigenous ingredients like potato and corn. The national dish of ceviche, fresh seafood ‘cooked’ in lime juice, is a must-try while on your vacation in Peru, while the stir-fry dish lomo saltado showcases the unique fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine. The best place to visit in Peru for foodies is Lima, an internationally renowned culinary capital with many traditional and international restaurants to discover.

Culture: Peru has a long and fascinating history, with Incan, European, Asian, and African influences that have shaped the country and given it its unique culture. A third of the population identifies as indigenous, with Quechua and Aymara, as well as hundreds of other indigenous languages, prevalent in the mountains and rural areas of Peru. During your vacation in Peru, discover the sacred significance of the Andes and the Amazon, experience colorful religious festivals filled with traditional music and dance, and browse street markets full of locally made artwork and handicrafts.

Religion: Although the main religion in Peru is Roman Catholicism, there is still a strong presence of indigenous spirituality and traditions. This unique cultural blend can be seen in the many religious festivals throughout the country, which bring flashes of color and music to every town and city.

Why You Should Travel to Peru

Peru has an incredibly diverse mix of landscapes, cultures, internationally renowned cuisine, and warm, friendly people – everything you need for a fantastic trip!

Home to one of the seven wonders of the world (and the best thing to do in Peru), Machu Picchu, it’s no surprise the nation draws visitors from all over the world. The ancient Incan city is just one of many incredible landscapes in Peru; discover the hidden lagoon of Huacachina in the middle of the desert, the rainbow-colored mountain of Palccoyo, and, of course, the lush and vibrant Amazon jungle.

Peru is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, which you can find throughout the country, but particularly in the Amazon. Take a boat tour or trek along beautiful trails and witness sloths, dolphins, and colorful birds in their natural habitat; it’s one of the best things to do in Peru!

Safety and Travel Advice in Peru

Enjoy your vacation in Peru to the fullest by taking the necessary precautions to enjoy a safe trip. The following tips help visitors get the most out of their journey.

Crime and Safety in Peru

Although Peru is generally safe for tourists, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings and belongings, particularly in bigger cities and at night. There has been an increase in political protests in the last year, mainly in the center of Lima, so avoid these where possible.

Natural Disasters

Although unlikely, keep an eye on the news and government websites for natural disasters and extreme weather like earthquakes, volcanoes, and flash floods.

Illness

Check what vaccinations you need before traveling, particularly if you plan on visiting the Amazon, where malaria is more common. Avoid drinking tap water by buying water or using a water purifier. Be aware of the effects of altitude sickness while traveling in the mountains.

Learn more about travel safety

Travel Insurance

One of the most important things you need to do before your Peru holiday is buy travel insurance. Although Peru is relatively safe, there is always a small chance of illness, accidents, or a canceled flight! Check out these best travel insurances.