South America · country guide
Peru travel guide
2 cities, suggested multi-city routes, transport tips — plus a full planner for every destination.
Peru offers a journey through ancient civilizations and diverse landscapes. Visitors are drawn to its rich history, from the legacy of the Inca Empire to pre-Columbian cultures, set against a backdrop of Andean peaks, Amazonian rainforest, and Pacific coastlines.
Each city below links to a full planner: a day-by-day itinerary you can tailor to your dates and pace, a realistic budget breakdown, a packing list, day-trip ideas, a local food guide, and the best months to visit. If you're combining several Peru cities into one trip, the suggested routes group them by region and travel time so you spend less of the trip in transit — and each destination page carries its own accessibility, transport, and neighbourhood detail rather than recycled boilerplate.
Cities in Peru
2 destinations covered. Tap any to get a full itinerary, packing list, budget, and more.
Key regions
The historical heartland of the Inca Empire, this region is dominated by dramatic mountain scenery, ancient ruins, and vibrant indigenous culture. It's the gateway to Machu Picchu and offers numerous trekking opportunities.
Peru's coastal strip features a dynamic capital city with a world-class culinary scene, colonial architecture, and pre-Inca archaeological sites. Further south, desert landscapes and coastal towns offer unique attractions.
This vast tropical rainforest region is home to incredible biodiversity, accessible via river towns. It's ideal for wildlife viewing, jungle lodges, and experiencing the unique ecosystem of the Amazon.
Suggested Peru routes
Classic Peru: Inca Heartland & Coast
Begin in the culinary capital of Lima, exploring its colonial center and coastal districts. Fly to Cusco to acclimatize before venturing into the Sacred Valley, culminating in a visit to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Andean Explorer
This route offers a comprehensive taste of Peru's diverse landscapes and history. It combines coastal wonders like the Ballestas Islands and Nazca Lines with the colonial charm of Arequipa, the dramatic Colca Canyon, and the ancient Inca sites around Cusco.
Peru's Natural Wonders
Experience the contrast between Peru's rich history and its natural biodiversity. Start in Lima, then fly to Puerto Maldonado for an Amazon jungle lodge adventure, before heading to Cusco and Machu Picchu for the Inca legacy.
Getting around
Domestic flights are the most efficient way to cover long distances between major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Iquitos. Intercity buses are a more economical option but can be time-consuming due to winding Andean roads. Rental cars are generally not recommended for tourists due to road conditions and complex navigation, especially in mountainous or remote areas.
Insider tips
- •Altitude sickness is a real concern in Cusco and the Andes; take it easy on your first day, stay hydrated, and consider coca tea.
- •Book train tickets and Machu Picchu entrance tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, as they sell out.
- •While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, carry small denominations of Peruvian Soles for markets, smaller shops, and local transport.
- •Be prepared for variable weather in the Andes; pack layers, including waterproofs, even in the dry season.
- •Taxis in Lima and Cusco should ideally be booked through your hotel or a reputable app to ensure fair pricing and safety.