Your Comprehensive Guide to Traveling in Peru: Everything You Need to Know

Peru offers notorious mountains, forests, highlands and the desert along the west coast. So, Peru is even more than just the rainforest that everyone is talking about. it enchants with Colonial-era structures, bewitches visitors with mystical ancient Inca site as a pilgrimage destination of Machu Picchu is an inevitable visit. To the adventurous, it reveals its unspoilt mother nature, one day deep canyon and another high mountain peaks, from which one can both thrill and see a stunning vista.

Although it is an ideal type of travel with the option not to get stuck with the crowd, handling Peru during the first time of the visitors, especially the budget-friendly nations like the twelve other ones, located in other continents of the globe, remains a daunting task.

First Peru was the destination for my trip to South America lost in astonishment at something completely new for me. Every corner of the map was pored over for hints on what to see, and how to optimize the budget and itinerary to avoid missing the fabulous places, and to remain safe regardless of how the region is altered by the past perceptions.

Here in this comprehensive handbook with pure Peru travel experience for beginners, I’ve collected all the things you require at a glance and provide you with the only essential resources. From the most attractive vestiges and advice on how to budget to safety concerns and ethics of unconventional travel, I’ve got all in one place for an unforgettable and conscientious trip in Peru.

When is the Best Time to Visit Peru?

Wet vs. Dry Seasons in Peru
A straightforward approach to pinpointing the optimal time for traveling to Peru involves dividing it into the nation’s wet and dry seasons:

May to October / November is the dry season in Peru
December to March / April is the rainy season in Peru
April and November are typically considered the shoulder seasons in Peru, where anything goes as the seasons pass over
February is the hottest month in Peru, and August is the coldest.

Wet vs. Dry Landscape in Peru

The place PERU is very attractive for those who like to try their strength in various types of active vacation whether it is very hot and monotonous desert or a lush green sea of trees. Contra result, your weather forecast is condition of where you want to travel in Peru and aptitude activities you plan to perform.

For example, you can go on an adventure travel during the rainy season. It would be a wise decision to avoid forests, mountains, and highlands in the north, along with the Cusco and Sacred Valley regions. The question, which trails and ways with final alley, Machu Picchu, may be blocked, founds considerable risk. However, Lima Peru, the desert costal town, will be prefered due to additional road network.

Do you need a Visa for Peru?

According to the Tourism website, Peru is famously known as “a country of open doors,” welcoming travelers from American and Western European countries without the need for a visa.

Travelers from the following countries are exempt from requiring a visa for Peru:

• North America: the United States and Canada.
• South America: All South American countries.
• Central America: All Central American countries except Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
• Europe: All countries within the European Union (EU) and Switzerland.
• Africa: South Africa.
• Middle East: Israel.
• Asia: Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
• Oceania: Australia and New Zealand.

Nevertheless, it’s prudent to verify the latest information and any updates regarding visa requirements from your country’s consulate before embarking on your journey to Peru.

As they enter into Peru, tourists will receive a single entry stamp either through Dubai or land border pass allowing them a maximum of 183 days to enjoy. To enter, it’s advisable to renew your passport to be valid for at least six months, and bear in mind that it must have more than 2 blank pages. What has to be pointed out in this situation is that you can’t get to renew the entry stamp if you are already inside the state. Furthermore, a possible outcome of overstaying for more than the prescribed time is paying fines.

Travel to Peru from Neighbouring Countries Overland

Planning a trip to Peru provides only one of many options to go traveling, bearing in mind that Ecuador and Colombia are the neighbours in the north and Bolivia and Brazil are the neighbours in the east, whereas Chile lays in the south. Thanks to its unique geographical position, Peru becomes a perfect nest for long-term exploring or a most attractive place for those, who would like to visit the country any time, embracing its neighboring countries.

On the other hand, if the option is not only you enter Peru by overland from the neighboring countries, remember to have the paper work ready. Peruvian Immigration Authorities may require a complete document of exit-stamp from the last country you visited before the country will deem you departed Peru. Moreover, you must obtain an entry stamp, obey the laws. If you’ve come by the land border, you were not provided with the stamp, then it’s compulsory by law to get it. It is worth mentioning that you will be asked to show the officials copies of your travel documents like hotel and train tickets which will be your proof that you are traveling.

Ecuador to Peru

Through Huaquillas (the most frequented route), Macará, or La Balsa at Zumba. Should you opt for overland entry from Ecuador into Peru, ensure to obtain your Peruvian entry stamp by visiting the local immigration office at your place of stay.

Bolivia to Peru

If you’re entering Peru from Bolivia through Copacabana, ensure your passport receives a Peruvian entry stamp at the immigration office in Desaguadero or Copacabana (located near Puno, a renowned traveler hub).

What is the Best Way to Travel Around Peru?

The panning of a vast area of Peru can only be achieved in a trustworthy, secure, and inexpensive transportation mode. My Peruvian travel guide is to be a real time travel with me to cover my first-hand encounter of the Hop on Bus Peru which stands a special option for bus travel in Perú.

Deciding where to go, how to get there and what to see and do on the way was a mix of an exploration of all from sand dunes to the colonial cities as well as the artifical lake islands which were all in the way to Cusco.

Nevertheless, as a matter of fact, it became more comfortable to move in Peru. Through my study I also came to know Peru is a hop, a fascinating and a fairly new service providing a convenient pass for a 2 weeks trip from Lima to Cuzco.

Peru Hop gives a Flexi ticket which is no way restricted by the collection point, either towards or from Lima to Cusco (including optional stop at La Paz in Bolivia) with stops in a row which including Paracas, Huacahina, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno, and so on. The suspended service Peru Hop is much more than just transportation; it is journey that is very flexible, for the travelers to explore the country on their own terms, and use time as per their likes and interest schedules. In addition to this, special itineraries and trips to Peru can be enjoyed at the select locations.

In this way, Peru Hop translates into final clearance of a single ticket with an easy-to-use booking system, maximum flexibility, free-from-cheat approach as well as the symbolic headache loss while failing to communicate with obscure “travel agents” or local bus stations. Travelers can book seats online, airline tickets are tied to the seat reservations made,and passports are checked on the way to, and arrival from, the attractions, the hostels have pick-up and drop-off at their doorsteps and they get the opportunity to interact with a local bilingual guide.

Flights to Peru and Travelling to and From Lima Airport

A usual way cheap flights to Peru ais arrived Lima, where the target is being high among for most of the tourists. Beyond that, Peru Hop and Lima Airport Express function together, creating the Airport Express Lima Bus that makes the stops in the city center.

You can either end up on our website where you can book online in advance or decide to arrive and hope you get available space just as you wish. While this bus shuttle provides a cheaper alternative to taxis in numerous hostels, however, I highly find the latter mode organized by many hostels, and specifically late night arrivals, very convenient and comfortable.

Travelling in the North of Peru

Currently, Peru Hop outlets do not offer express buses in this part of the country (which is regretful) but I am sure this service will be established before long. During the course I did rapid many travelers who were heading north to try out the epic Laguna 69 trek, and they had only access to the local buses. A few framed this convoy with us (“gringos” in buses) being the presence of our fellow travelers and therefore providers of reassurance which helped us from feeling like alone on a journey scary, or lonesome.

Flights in Peru — Travelling from Lima to Cusco / Cusco to Lima

For a direct journey between Lima and Cusco (or vice versa) without any layovers, the most convenient option is taking an internal flight. Numerous travelers utilize Lima as an economical transit point from their originating city to subsequently reach Machu Picchu, hence creating a more frequented path.

While Peruvian Airlines may offer tempting deals, I suggest considering Latam. Latam boasts a commendable safety track record, stands as a well-established pan-South American carrier, maintains consistent routes between major cities, and remains reasonably priced. With a stroke of luck, you can secure a flight for approximately $60.

Sightseeing Peru — Where to Visit

The vast majority of tourists visiting Peru in the first instance like to explore ‘the southern loop’ which starts in Lima and ends in Cusco. Cusco is the main destination as it is next to the road to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and even above this to Machu Picchu. It is also true that despite a myriad of activities to interest a majority of travelers, many fail to take the extra step to take in the many other captovating destinations along this route which have as much historical and natural significance overlooked.

Like those who are lucky to have an extra time, usually the northway is their choice with many decide to go on the well-known hiking route the “Laguna 69.” Either during the stay or later visit one can marched it.

Lima

Chances are, your journey will kick off in Peru’s capital due to its well-established flight connections. Lima stands as a sprawling metropolis along the coastline, where vast residential areas on the outskirts remain largely inaccessible to visitors. The majority opt to lodge in the secure and tourist-friendly district of Miraflores, providing a convenient base to blend contemporary urban experiences with visits to Inca ruins and beaches. Alternatively, some prefer the vibrant ambiance of Barranco, renowned for its artistic flair and alternative culture.

Both Miraflores and Barranco are not only close or can be easily reach downtown but also a trips that are often take days to explore downtown. However, this city neighborhood is somewhat iffy, it is necessary to get through and beyond the solid status of roughness. Head down among a maze of squares and side streets and you can’t help but to see splendid masterpieces of art and architecture stacked around the Plaza de Armas, which includes cathedrals, palaces and more. Colourful streetscape on which the windows and balconies of beautiful old houses, which complete a narrative as you browse through the neighbouring cafes, foodstores, and shops at your will.

Paracas

While Coastal Paracas may seem tranquil at first glance, its allure lies in its relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to embark on an adventure to the protected Ballestas Islands. Often referred to as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” a speedboat excursion offers a chance to spend two awe-inspiring hours spotting diverse wildlife, from pelicans and penguins to various bird species and the occasional sleepy sea lion, all within the Paracas National Reserve.

Moreover, the stark beauty of Paracas National Park’s expansive desert plains, characterized by dramatic cliff drops and rugged rock formations, serves as yet another captivating highlight. Should you opt for an extended stay, there’s no shortage of nature-centric activities to fill your leisurely days.

Huacachina

Making Huacachina sand dunes to the pride! Special. The moment you land in this oasis city you’ll get aware that it’s standing within a ring of brown mounds reproduced by the small hills from the desert outside.

You may feel them better when you choose to sit back and enjoy the blazing roller coaster rides, going to the farthest points and giving you the feeling of butterfly stomaches for ploughing down. You can also get involve in Sandboarding — a real adrenaline pump (if you want to learn where to start, here). The users of this place do not only come here to have some Pisco wine but also much enjoy its production in the nearby Pisco vineyards.

Nazca

In spite of being there for the whole world to behold for over 2000 years, the mysterious Sistine walls hitherto still puzzle us what is there left to know about the purpose behind their creation. These unique and spectacular places were given an explicit recognition by UNESCO in the form of the World Heritage Site. For many centuries, people from all over the globe have come, not only to explore them, but also to have a chance to experience their mystery.

A visit to the Nazca Site where three of the Nazca lines are viewable from the free-access tower along the Highway, does allow for some level of amazement but this is surpassed by the flying experience which is invested with emotion. The flight over the desert would not be just any “normal” flight. Whist swooping over the basin, marvelous figures you have grown up knowing will pop up and you’ll be fascinated trying to identify who it is. The spider, condor, monkey, whale and even a sea-faring astronaut will pop out of nowhere in a and even at a time as you trace the contours of

Arequipa

Discover the enchanting allure of Arequipa, a city adorned with colonial charm and framed by a breathtaking backdrop of majestic mountain peaks, notably the towering Misti volcano. Dive into its rich history and uncover hidden gems nestled within its neighborhoods and scenic viewpoints by joining the complimentary daily walking tour.

Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon which is visited after a four-hour ride from Arequipa qualifies to be the second deepest canyon world wide; just say twice as deep as the famous American canyon, the Grand Canyon.

The range of visitors for the place varies from day trip carriers and some trekking experience would find themselves in a myriad of options. Immerse yourself in the captivating flight and upon the top of the Andean Condor from high viewpoints, admire the breathtaking views of the neighboring volcanoes and make a climbing trip into the canyon heart. After warding off the crunch of sand underfoot, your night’s rest will be in the oasis below, then you will awaken with the rising sun, this is where the struggle and unforgettable memory melt together to imprint the rugged beauty in your mind.

Puno and Lake Titicaca

Puno is renowned for Lake Titicaca — the highest navigable lake on Earth, situated at an altitude of over 3,800 meters above sea level.

Visitors flock here to explore the fascinating man-made floating reed islands, where they can immerse themselves in the local culture by spending a night with a host family on one of the more remote islands. I highly recommend this option for those with the time, as I found that the shorter half-day and day tours cater mostly to tourists and can lack authenticity. Additionally, the prevalence of begging, especially among local children, has unfortunately become a byproduct of this tourist-centric approach.

Some travelers also use Puno as a gateway to Bolivia, extending their lake excursion to include a journey to Copacabana.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Cusco, formerly the capital of the Inca Empire, serves as the essential starting point for those embarking on the iconic journey to Machu Picchu — undoubtedly the pinnacle of any adventure in Peru.

Yet, Cusco offers much more than just a gateway to the ancient Inca site. The heart of Cusco itself is a treasure trove of attractions, boasting Colonial architecture, stone walls, and remnants of Inca heritage that adorn the winding cobblestone streets.

For those seeking deeper historical and cultural immersion, Cusco abounds with captivating tours. The city’s vibrant atmosphere is further enriched by trendy coffee shops, vegan eateries, independent boutiques, and eclectic hangouts, particularly in the bohemian enclave of San Blas.

The Best Way to Visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

Exploring Machu Picchu is undeniably the pinnacle of any Peruvian adventure, and navigating the array of treks, tours, and day trips to Machu Picchu is the perpetual quest in travel planning.

Machu Picchu Treks

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Among the most favored routes, this four-day expedition leads you across diverse communities and the ancient Incan remnants nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Culminating on the final day with a predawn ascent to the Sun Gate, you’ll witness the splendor of Machu Picchu unfold as the sun graces the horizon.

As a vital artery of Peru’s tourism, it’s imperative to approach a Machu Picchu visit with conscientiousness and ethical consideration.

The Salkantay Trek

Characterized as an alternative to the iconic Inca Trail, this pathway traverses the formidable Salkantay Pass, reaching an altitude of 4600m, before descending into the enchanting cloud forest below. Culminating at the Incan site of Llactapata, hikers are rewarded with a panoramic glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance.

The Lares Trek

Embark on a three-day trek amidst the majestic mountains of the Sacred Valley, where the focus lies on pristine natural vistas rather than Incan relics, with altitudes soaring up to 4800m. Your journey culminates with a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, bringing you to the doorstep of Machu Picchu.

Money in Peru

Using Peruvian Soles

Peru currency is the sol. It is so amazingly adaptive, in a short time it becomes so easy to handle it. The exchange rate at the time of writing favors a USD/SOL with a multiplier of three, a EUR/SOL with a multiplier of three and a half and a GBP/SOL with a multiplier of four. In the process of rounding, salespeople make quick decisions in pricing and pay money.

An exchange rate is less important for travelers like tourists and senior residents who use their local currency like Soles for meals, shopping at local markets, and entrance fees to attractions. Also, some eateries and ATM’s accept US dollars, but it’s easier to use Soles in these cases.

While Dollars became the credit card for a lot of facets of our daily life throughout our trip, we still used debit or credit cards for larger expenses, such as excursions to Rainbow Mountain and Colca Canyon as well as for accommodation in hostels and hotels.

Moreover, I had 200 Dollars in my savings which could be drawn on as an emergency fund as well.