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 profound journey through the Andes mountains and Amazon rainforest, shaped by ancient civilizations and vibrant contemporary culture. Travelers come to explore Inca history, witness diverse ecosystems, and experience the renowned culinary scene.
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 heartland of the Inca Empire, this region boasts iconic archaeological sites like Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, alongside the vibrant city of Cusco, a gateway to the Andes.
Peru's capital offers a dynamic culinary landscape, colonial architecture, and pre-Inca ruins. Coastal areas provide access to marine biodiversity and desert landscapes.
Accessible from cities like Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, this region is a gateway to unparalleled biodiversity, offering jungle lodges and river expeditions.
The world's highest navigable lake is home to unique indigenous cultures, including the Uros floating islands and the traditional communities of Taquile and Amantani.
Suggested Peru routes
Classic Peru: Andes & Coast
This route begins in Lima, exploring its culinary and historical offerings before flying to Cusco. From Cusco, venture into the Sacred Valley, visiting key Inca sites, and culminate with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Peru Explorer: Culture, Nature & History
Start in Lima, then fly to Cusco for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Continue by bus or scenic train to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca to experience its unique islands and culture.
Amazon & Andes Adventure
Combine the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, accessed via Puerto Maldonado, with the historical wonders of the Inca Empire in Cusco and Machu Picchu, with Lima as your entry and exit point.
Getting around
Intercity travel is primarily by bus or domestic flights. Long-distance buses are generally comfortable and reliable, especially for overnight journeys. Domestic flights connect major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Iquitos, and are often the fastest way to cover large distances. Rental cars are not recommended for most tourists due to road conditions and navigation challenges.
Insider tips
- •Book Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.
- •Acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for at least 2-3 days before strenuous activity to avoid altitude sickness.
- •Carry small denominations of Peruvian Soles (PEN) for markets and smaller establishments, as credit card acceptance can be inconsistent outside major tourist areas.
- •Be aware that many restaurants in Lima offer affordable and high-quality set lunch menus ('menú del día').
- •Consider taking overnight buses for long distances; they are often comfortable and save on accommodation costs.
- •Learn a few basic Spanish phrases; while English is spoken in tourist hubs, local interactions are enhanced with even minimal Spanish.