South America · country guide
Peru travel guide
2 cities, suggested multi-city routes, transport tips — plus a full planner for every destination.
Photo by McKayla Crump on Unsplash
Peru offers a profound journey through ancient civilizations and diverse landscapes. Its dramatic Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, and coastal deserts hold a rich cultural heritage, drawing visitors seeking historical wonders and natural beauty.
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
Southern Highlands (Andes)
This is the heart of the Inca Empire, home to Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. It's characterized by high-altitude cities, ancient ruins, and stunning mountain scenery.
Northern Coast
A drier region with a different historical focus, featuring Moche and Chimu ruins, colonial architecture in Trujillo, and surf towns. It offers a distinct cultural and environmental experience from the Andes.
Amazon Basin
Accessed primarily from cities like Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, this region provides unparalleled biodiversity and jungle experiences. It's a gateway to exploring the Amazon rainforest and its unique ecosystems.
Central Coast
Dominated by Lima, this area is the country's culinary capital and a hub for pre-Inca archaeological sites. It also offers access to coastal attractions and islands.
Suggested Peru routes
Classic Peru: Andes & Coast
10 days
Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu
Begin in Lima to explore its culinary scene and coastal history, then fly to Cusco. Spend time acclimatizing and exploring the Sacred Valley before a breathtaking visit to Machu Picchu.
Northern Peru Explorer
7 days
Lima → Trujillo → Chiclayo
Fly north from Lima to discover the pre-Inca civilizations of the Moche and Chimu cultures around Trujillo and Chiclayo. This route offers a look at Peru's ancient history beyond the Inca.
Andean Immersion
14 days
Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Puno → Lake Titicaca
Combine the iconic Inca sites with a journey to Lake Titicaca. Travel from Cusco to Puno, exploring the Uros and Taquile islands, experiencing Andean culture at high altitude.
Getting around
Domestic flights are the most efficient way to cover long distances between major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Iquitos. Intercity buses are common and generally comfortable for shorter routes, though journeys can be lengthy. Rental cars are rarely recommended for tourists due to road conditions and navigation challenges.
Insider tips
- •Acclimatize to altitude gradually in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before strenuous activities; coca tea can help.
- •Book Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.
- •While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, carry sufficient cash (Peruvian Soles) for markets, smaller shops, and local transport.
- •Be aware of 'propina' (tip) culture; while not always mandatory, it's appreciated for good service in restaurants and for guides.
- •Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- •Be prepared for variable weather in the Andes; pack layers including rain gear, even in the dry season.