Peru Travel Guide
Country Country known for its ancient Inca civilization
Peru entices travelers with the ancient echoes of Machu Picchu, the vibrant streets of Lima, and the mysteries of the Nazca Lines. The Andean peaks challenge trekkers, while the Amazon basin offers a lush counterpoint. Ceviche and pisco sours provide a taste of the country’s diverse palate.
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Why Visit Peru #
Visiting Machu Picchu is a must-whether you hike the Inca Trail or take the train from Cusco, the site rewards early arrivals with light and solitude. Book permits well in advance for the Inca Trail; if you skip the trek, the Sun Gate walk still gives a dramatic approach. Don’t treat it like just a photo stop.
Beyond Machu Picchu, Peru offers varied high‑altitude treks like Salkantay and Ausangate, with glacial passes, turquoise lakes and remote Andean communities. These routes are quieter than the classic Inca Trail and showcase dramatic mountain scenery. Acclimatize in Cusco before you start and hire local guides for safety and cultural insight.
Lima’s food scene is world‑class: ceviche at neighborhood cebicherías, Nikkei fusion and fine dining in Miraflores and Barranco. Try anticuchos and lomo saltado from street vendors as well; ceviche is best at lunchtime. Don’t miss sampling regional specialties in the Sacred Valley and Arequipa for a broader taste of Peru.
Head to the Peruvian Amazon from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado for close encounters with jungle wildlife and indigenous communities. Lodges offer guided night walks, river boat trips and piranha fishing-pack mosquito protection and a lightweight rain jacket. Choose a reputable lodge for responsible wildlife viewing and better chances to see macaws and primates.
Explore Pisac and Ollantaytambo markets for woven textiles, artisan goods and Andean flavors; try corn beers and fresh cheeses. The valley’s small towns offer Inca ruins without the crowds of Cusco, and you can see traditional weaving demonstrations. It’s the best place to buy authentic souvenirs while visiting local communities.
Who's Peru For?
Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley are quintessential honeymoon material - sunrise at Inti Punku or a quiet lodge near Ollantaytambo creates unforgettable private moments.
Lima’s museums and coastal parks are kid-friendly, but high Andean altitude in Cusco and long travel times make some itineraries tricky for very young children.
The classic backpacker loop-Cusco, Inca Trail or Salkantay trek, then Arequipa and northern beaches-offers cheap hostels, communal hikes and easy traveler networks.
Lima and parts of Cusco have coworking cafés and decent internet, yet slower connections outside big cities and visa limitations hinder long-term remote work plans.
Peru is a culinary heavyweight: Lima’s fine-dining scene, coastal ceviche, and Andean ingredients like quinoa and causa make it an essential food destination.
Hiking the Inca Trail, sandboarding in Huacachina, condor-watching at Colca Canyon and Amazon river expeditions offer high-adrenaline options across varied terrain.
Cusco’s vibrant nightlife and Pisco-heavy bars offer late nights and meeting fellow travelers, though parties are smaller and more concentrated than coastal festival scenes.
The Amazon basin, Andes peaks and cloud forests like Manu National Park provide exceptional biodiversity and birding-top marks for those chasing wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
Regions of Peru #
Cusco & Sacred Valley
High-altitude history and living Andean culture make this region the heart of Peru’s classic itinerary. Archaeological sites, steep terraces and vibrant markets cluster around Cusco, with the Sacred Valley offering gentler acclimatization and craft villages. It’s where trekking starts, ruins impress and Andean gastronomy shines.
Top Spots
- Cusco - Ancient Inca capital, colonial streets and thriving market life.
- Ollantaytambo - Living Inca town and classic train departure for Machu Picchu.
- Pisac - Colorful market and high-altitude terraces.
Machu Picchu
One of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, Machu Picchu rewards early mornings and clear skies with unforgettable views. Access options include the Inca Trail, alternative treks and trains through dramatic mountain scenery. Expect crowds but also the chance for quiet, magical moments above the cloud line.
Top Spots
- Machu Picchu - The iconic Inca citadel above the Urubamba Valley.
- Aguas Calientes - The tourist town for early trains and hot springs.
Lima & Coast
Peru’s Pacific coast mixes a sophisticated capital, desert playgrounds and seafood-focused cuisine. Lima is a food pilgrim’s stop with historic neighborhoods and edgy new bars, while southern coastal towns offer wildlife cruises, dune adventures and access to Nazca lines flights. Beach culture is warm and varied.
Top Spots
- Lima - Culinary capital with world-class restaurants and colonial plazas.
- Paracas - Ballestas Islands wildlife trips and desert landscapes.
- Huacachina - Sandboarding and oasis sunsets in the Ica desert.
Amazon Basin
Dense rainforest, river journeys and biodiversity define Peru’s Amazon region. Stay in jungle lodges, take night walks for caimans and frogs, and float past macaws and monkeys on oxbow lakes. Logistics require planning, but the payoff is immersive wildlife encounters and powerful rainforest landscapes.
Top Spots
- Iquitos - Jungle gateway reachable by river and plane.
- Tambopata - Biodiverse reserves and lodge-based wildlife spotting.
- Puerto Maldonado - Easy access to Amazonian canopy walks.
North Coast
The north blends archaeological masterpieces with sunny beaches and surf towns. Ancient adobe cities, colorful festivals and excellent seafood dominate cultural stops, while long sandy stretches attract surfers and relaxed travelers. It’s a less crowded counterpoint to the southern highlights, with its own distinct traditions.
Top Spots
- Trujillo - Colonial squares and nearby pre-Columbian ruins like Chan Chan.
- Máncora - Surfing, sun and a backpacker-friendly beach scene.
- Chiclayo - Moche and Lambayeque archaeological treasures.
Top Cities in Peru
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Best Things to Do in Peru
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Peru Bucket List
- Machu Picchu - 15th-century Inca citadel perched above the Urubamba Valley, reached by Inca Trail or train from Cusco.
- Sacred Valley (Urubamba) - Fertile valley with traditional markets, Inca sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac, gateway to Machu Picchu.
- Cusco - Former Inca capital featuring colonial architecture, Plaza de Armas, and archaeological sites including Sacsayhuamán.
- Lake Titicaca - World's highest navigable lake with Uros reed islands and traditional communities on Taquile and Amantani.
- Colca Canyon - Deep canyon near Arequipa where condors soar and trekking routes pass traditional highland villages.
- Nazca Lines - Enigmatic geoglyphs etched in desert plains best viewed from small observation flights above Nazca.
- Choquequirao - Remote Inca complex reached by multi-day trek, quieter alternative offering extensive terraces and mountain views.
- Kuelap - Massive stone fortress in Amazonas region built by the Chachapoya, accessible from Chachapoyas town.
- Gocta Waterfall - Tall waterfall near Chachapoyas with guided hikes through cloud forest to impressive plunge pools.
- Huacachina and Cerro Blanco - Desert oasis at Huacachina with Cerro Blanco dunes offering sandboarding and big-ride dune experiences.
- Cordillera Huayhuash - High-altitude trekking circuit with rugged peaks and pristine glacial lakes for experienced hikers.
- Pan-American Highway (Peru coast) - Coastal stretch of the Pan-American traversing Peru from Tumbes to Tacna, roughly 2,000-2,400 km.
- Cusco-Sacred Valley-Machu Picchu itinerary - Multi-stop route through Cusco, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes, ideal for acclimatizing before Machu Picchu.
- Huaraz-Cordillera Blanca loop - Scenic mountain drive from Huaraz to Caraz, access to Laguna 69, Pastoruri Glacier, and alpine villages.
- Cusco-Manu Road - Rugged multi-day route from Cusco into Manu National Park, entering diverse cloudforest and Amazonian ecosystems.
Planning Your Trip to Peru #
1 Week Peru Itinerary
Discover Lima's food scene, fly to Cusco, explore the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, then Arequipa or Lake Titicaca for highlands culture and colonial architecture and local markets.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Lima; Barranco street art and Miraflores seaside walk.
- Day 2 - Lima food tour and Larco Museum visit.
- Day 3 - Fly to Cusco, acclimatize with San Blas and Plaza de Armas.
- Day 4 - Sacred Valley: Pisac market and Ollantaytambo ruins.
- Day 5 - Train to Aguas Calientes; afternoon thermal baths and village stroll.
- Day 6 - Early Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco in evening.
- Day 7 - Cusco: Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha and local markets; depart.
2 Weeks Peru Itinerary
Add Arequipa and Colca Canyon to a Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu base, then continue to Lake Titicaca islands for traditional communities and highland landscapes.
Show itinerary- Day 1-2 - Lima highlights: Miraflores, Barranco, culinary experiences.
- Day 3-5 - Cusco and Sacred Valley: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, local markets.
- Day 6 - Aguas Calientes and evening before Machu Picchu.
- Day 7 - Machu Picchu sunrise visit and Huayna Picchu optional.
- Day 8-9 - Return Cusco; flight to Arequipa, visit Santa Catalina convent.
- Day 10-11 - Colca Canyon day trips; condor lookout at Cruz del Cóndor.
- Day 12-14 - Fly to Juliaca; Lake Titicaca: Uros and Taquile island visit.
3-4 Weeks Peru Itinerary
Combine Lima and Cusco's historical highlights with Arequipa, Lake Titicaca and a multi-day Amazon lodge stay from Puerto Maldonado for wildlife, river excursions and local community visits.
Show itinerary- Day 1-3 - Lima gastronomy, museums and historic centre.
- Day 4-8 - Cusco base; Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and cultural excursions.
- Day 9-11 - Arequipa and Colca Canyon for volcanos and condors.
- Day 12-14 - Puno and Lake Titicaca islands visits, homestays optional.
- Day 15-18 - Fly to Puerto Maldonado; Amazon lodge, jungle walks and river tours.
- Day 19-21 - Return to Lima or extend to northern coast; relax and depart.
Best Time to Visit Peru #
Peru's climate varies strongly by region: a mild, desert-like coast, a tropical Amazon basin, and a highland Andes zone with a clear dry season in the southern hemisphere winter (May-September). For most visitors, the Andean dry season (May-September) is the best time for trekking and mountain sightseeing.
January
High humidity and regular heavy rain across the Amazon and Andean highlands; coastal Lima tends to be mild and overcast with cool sea breezes. Trekking routes in the highlands are often muddy and some higher passes can be slippery.
Events
No major festivals this month.
February
Peak wet season in much of the country's interior and Amazon basin; heavy rain can interrupt river travel and make some rural roads impassable. Coastal areas remain relatively temperate but can be humid.
Events
- Virgen de la Candelaria (Puno) - A major folkloric and religious festival in Puno, typically held in early February with dances and parades.
March
Wet season continues but begins to taper in some highland areas later in the month. Coastal summer is still warm; crowds are generally smaller than in the dry-season trek months.
Events
- Semana Santa (varies) - Easter week is widely observed with religious processions and local events, often in March or April.
April
A transitional month: rain lessens in the highlands while the Amazon remains humid. Popular treks begin to become more reliable toward the end of the month; prices are often lower than peak season.
Events
No major festivals this month.
May
Start of the dry season in the Andes - drier days and clearer skies make this the beginning of prime trekking season (including the Inca Trail). Coastal areas are comfortable and the Amazon sees relatively reduced rainfall compared with earlier months.
Events
No major festivals this month.
June
Well into the dry season in the highlands - clear skies and colder nights at altitude. Excellent month for trekking and visiting Machu Picchu, though popular sites can be busy around festival dates.
Events
- Inti Raymi (Cusco) - An important Inca festival held around June 24 in Cusco, featuring processions and ceremonies.
July
Peak dry-season conditions: ideal for trekking, highland travel and clear mountain views. Expect higher visitor numbers on major routes and around national holidays.
Events
- Fiestas Patrias - National holidays on July 28-29 celebrating Peru's independence with parades and festivities.
August
Continued dry, stable weather in the highlands with cold nights at altitude; a top month for outdoor activities and highland festivals. Amazon remains warm but less rainy than wet season months.
Events
No major festivals this month.
September
End of the high trekking season; pleasant conditions and thinning crowds outside peak holiday weeks. Weather warms gradually on the coast and in lower elevations.
Events
No major festivals this month.
October
Transitional month as the rains start to return to the Andes and Amazon later in the month. Coastal weather is generally pleasant; good time to travel before the heavy rains begin.
Events
No major festivals this month.
November
Rainfall increases across the highlands and Amazon, bringing more humid conditions and occasional travel disruptions in remote areas. Coastal Lima enters its warmer, sunnier period but can be hazy early in the month.
Events
No major festivals this month.
December
Wet season underway in the interior with heavy showers and higher river levels; many rural tracks become muddy. Coastal destinations are warm and popular around the holidays.
Events
No major festivals this month.
How to Get to Peru #
Most international flights arrive into Lima (Jorge Chávez International, LIM), which is the main hub for onward domestic flights to Cusco (CUZ), Arequipa (AQP) and the Amazon gateways. Overland travel from neighboring South American countries is possible by bus across several border crossings.
- Peru grants visa-free entry to citizens of many countries (including the EU/Schengen states, UK, USA, Canada, Australia) for short tourist stays-commonly up to 90 days. Some nationalities require a visa obtained in advance.
- Transit without visa options exist for certain short connections; check specific rules if transiting through Peruvian airports.
- Passport should be valid for the duration of stay; immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel and accommodation bookings.
- Yellow fever vaccination is required when arriving from affected countries; other routine vaccinations recommended.
- Customs limits on currency and agricultural products apply-declare valuables and certain foods. For longer stays or work, apply for the appropriate visa ahead of travel.
International Airports
Border Crossings #
Peru ↔ Ecuador
The Aguas Verdes (Peru) ↔ Huaquillas (Ecuador) crossing on the Pan‑American corridor is the busiest and most established land link in the north. Regular buses and private vehicles use this crossing; travellers should have passports stamped on exit/entry and check vaccination or transit requirements. Ecuador and Peru both operate visa‑free regimes for many nationalities, but verify whether you need a visa and any reciprocity fees before travel.
Crossings
- Aguas Verdes - Huaquillas (Tumbes to El Oro) - Main Pan‑American coastal crossing; served by buses between Tumbes and Machala and onward to Guayaquil. Expect immigration counters on both sides and a busy market area on the Ecuadorian side.
Peru ↔ Bolivia
Multiple crossings link Peru and Bolivia around Lake Titicaca and the southern highlands. Overland travel is common on bus routes between Puno (Peru) and La Paz (Bolivia); many travellers also cross by boat on Lake Titicaca at selected ports. Visa needs depend on nationality - most visitors handle immigration at official posts, and some crossings have facilities for tourist permits.
Crossings
- Desaguadero (Puno - Desaguadero) (Puno to La Paz region) - The main road crossing for bus services between Puno and La Paz. Frequently used by tourists heading to the Bolivian altiplano; allow time for passport control and small‑goods inspections.
- Kasani - Copacabana (Lake Titicaca ferry link) (Puno/Isla del Sol area to Copacabana) - A lake crossing option used by tourist ferries and small boats connecting Peruvian and Bolivian lakeshore towns. Good for travellers wishing to visit Copacabana or Isla del Sol, but expect variable schedules and weather‑dependent service.
Peru ↔ Chile
The Tacna (Peru) - Arica (Chile) corridor is the main southern crossing between the two countries. Road and bus services connect Tacna with Arica and onward to other Chilean destinations; many travellers prefer overnight buses or flights. Visa rules are country‑dependent - Chile and Peru have reciprocal arrangements for many nationalities, but check validity and any transit fees before departing.
Crossings
- Tacna - Arica (Tacna region to Arica y Parinacota) - The primary international crossing in the south; widely used by buses between Lima/Juliaca and northern Chile. Processing is generally straightforward but can be busy during holidays.
Peru ↔ Brazil
Peru’s border with Brazil is extensive and mostly in the Amazon; formal road crossings exist but the region is remote. The Iñapari-Assis Brasil crossing is the principal overland route linking the Interoceanic Highway; flights to Porto Velho or Rio Branco are alternatives. Visa requirements vary by nationality - Brazil and Peru have different policies, so check entry rules and any fees ahead of time.
Crossings
- Iñapari - Assis Brasil (Madre de Dios to Acre) - Key crossing on the Interoceanic Highway, used by trucks and long‑distance buses between Peru and western Brazil. Useful for travellers heading to the Amazon or connecting overland to Brazil, but services are limited and road conditions can be rough.
Peru ↔ Colombia
The Peru-Colombia border runs through remote Amazonian rainforest; crossing points are sparse, frequently informal, and often only accessible by river. Many travellers choose to fly between major Peruvian and Colombian cities rather than attempt overland transit; where crossings exist, they are best attempted with local guidance and caution. Formal crossings require passports and may have limited immigration hours.
Crossings
- Putumayo / Amazon river landings (remote river crossings) (Loreto/Madre de Dios to Amazonas regions) - Riverine crossings used by local communities and occasional organised expeditions; these are remote, with limited infrastructure and schedules. Not recommended for travellers without prior arrangement or guidance - flights are the safer, more reliable option.
How to Get Around Peru
Domestic carriers such as LATAM, Sky Airline and Viva Air connect Lima with Cusco, Arequipa and Amazon airports. Lima-Cusco flights are frequent; fares vary widely-expect PEN 150-700 one-way depending on season.
Flying is the fastest way to reach highland and Amazon destinations; book early around peak times (Inca Trail/Machu Picchu season).
Trains to Machu Picchu depart from Cusco/Poroy and Ollantaytambo; main operators are PeruRail and Inca Rail. Services range from budget to luxury, with fares varying substantially-budget options exist but sell out in high season.
The train is the standard way to access Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) from the Sacred Valley; combine with bus up to the site.
Long-distance coaches link Lima to most major cities; reputable operators include Cruz del Sur and regional companies. Comfortable overnight services on popular routes (e.g., Lima-Arequipa) offer cabins and cost-effective fares-expect PEN 60-200 depending on class.
In cities and rural areas, colectivos (shared vans) and combis provide short-distance transport; quality and safety standards vary.
Ride-hailing apps such as Uber operate in Lima and some other cities for quick, app-based trips. Local taxi apps and radio taxis are also commonly used-agree on fares or use apps to avoid haggling.
Apps offer convenience for airport transfers and intra-city rides; traffic in Lima can be heavy, so allow extra time.
Boat travel is essential to reach parts of the Amazon basin and coastal islands. Operators and routes vary by region-short boat trips to places like the Ballestas Islands are run from Paracas by local tour operators (day-trip prices vary).
For river travel in the Amazon, arrange through established lodges or operators; expect multi-day schedules and additional costs for guided transport.
Where to Stay in Peru #
Most visitors base themselves in Lima (Miraflores, Barranco), Cusco, or Arequipa where hotels range from budget to boutique. In the Sacred Valley, towns like Ollantaytambo and Urubamba offer convenient access to Machu Picchu train departures.
Backpackers flock to hostels in Cusco, Aguas Calientes and Huaraz with dorms and guided-trek connections. Many hostels also arrange day trips and altitude advice-book early in high season for Inca Trail departures.
Homestays in the Sacred Valley and rural Andean villages (Pisac area, Maras) offer cultural immersion and simple meals; ideal for travelers wanting community-based experiences and local guides. Expect basic but welcoming accommodations.
Amazon lodges near Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado and Tambopata provide guided jungle excursions and wildlife viewing; many include all meals and boat transfers. Danube-style lodges vary from rustic to comfortable eco-lodges.
For Salkantay or alternative treks to Machu Picchu, organized camps with dome tents or refugios are common; booking with a reputable operator ensures meals and mule support. High-altitude gear rental is available in Cusco.
Staying Connected in Peru #
Peru’s internet is reliable in major cities and tourist hubs but can be slow or intermittent in the Andes and Amazon. Major carriers provide prepaid options and decent urban mobile speeds suitable for streaming and maps. Expect variable fixed broadband quality outside Lima.
Lima has plentiful cafes and coworking spaces with reliable broadband; outside the capital, hotel and hostel Wi‑Fi quality varies. In tourist hubs like Cusco, Wi‑Fi is common but can be limited during peak season, so keep a data SIM for backup.
Expect limited coverage along remote Amazon routes and high-altitude treks; buy a local SIM on arrival and confirm network roaming for border crossings.
Health & Safety in Peru #
Peru is generally safe for tourists but presents predictable risks: altitude sickness in the Andes, tropical diseases in the Amazon, and petty crime in tourist hubs. Plan for acclimatization, get region-specific vaccines and malaria advice, and exercise vigilance in crowded areas.
- Altitude Sickness - Cusco, Puno and many Andean sites sit above 3,000 m; symptoms can appear quickly. Allow 1-2 days to acclimatize, stay hydrated, avoid heavy exertion, and consider acetazolamide if you have risk factors or severe symptoms.
- Scams & Petty Crime - Pickpocketing and bag-snatching target tourists in Lima, Cusco and market areas. Keep valuables secure, use money belts, avoid poorly lit streets at night and be wary of distraction techniques near ATMs or bus terminals.
- Food & Water - Travelers' diarrhea is common; drink bottled or properly filtered water and avoid ice from uncertain sources. Eat at busy, reputably cleaned restaurants and peel fruit yourself. Carry oral rehydration salts and anti-diarrheal medication.
- Amazon Health Risks - The Amazon basin carries malaria, dengue and other tropical diseases. Consult travel medicine for vaccines (yellow fever) and malaria prophylaxis where recommended, use insect repellent and sleep under nets in jungle areas.
- Road & Bus Safety - Long-distance buses can be crowded and roads in rural Andes are narrow with steep drops. Use reputable companies, sit nearer the driver, avoid overnight local buses in insecure regions and secure luggage with locks.
- Natural Hazards (rainy season) - Heavy rains (Dec-Mar) cause landslides, road closures and river flooding, notably in highlands and jungle roads. Check weather and local advisories, allow flexible schedules, and avoid river crossings after storms.
History & Culture of Peru #
Peru’s identity blends Andean Indigenous cultures, coastal traditions and colonial heritage, creating a country where ancient ruins, mountain communities and bustling urban markets sit side by side. Distinctive regional cuisines, strong local crafts and living Indigenous languages make it a culturally rich destination.
History of Peru
Peru’s cultural landscape is shaped by ancient Andean civilizations, most prominently the Inca Empire, which built extensive terrace agriculture, road networks and urban centers such as Cusco. Many archaeological sites, including Machu Picchu, remain major visitor attractions and living reminders of pre-Columbian innovation.
Notable Figures
- Pachacuti - 13th-14th century Inca ruler credited with transforming Cusco into the political and spiritual center of the Inca Empire.
- Atahualpa - The last sovereign Inca emperor whose capture by the Spanish in 1532 led to the rapid collapse of Inca political power.
- Francisco Pizarro - Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that defeated the Inca and established Spanish rule in the 16th century.
- José de San Martín - Argentine general who declared Peru's independence in 1821 and played a key role in South American liberation movements.
Key Dates
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c. 1200-1532The Inca Empire rises and expands across the Andean highlands, creating a sophisticated administrative and road system centered on Cusco.
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1532Spanish forces under Francisco Pizarro capture the Inca ruler Atahualpa, beginning the colonial conquest of the region.
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1535Lima is founded by Francisco Pizarro and becomes the Spanish colonial capital and economic center.
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1821José de San Martín proclaims Peruvian independence in Lima; subsequent battles (notably Ayacucho in 1824) secure independence from Spain.
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1980s-1990sInternal conflict involving the Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso) and state forces causes widespread disruption, especially in rural highland areas.
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1992Capture of Shining Path leader Abimael Guzmán marks a major turning point toward restoring stability.
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2000s-presentPeru grows as a diverse economy with expanding tourism focused on cultural and natural heritage while ongoing debates continue over mining, Indigenous rights and regional development.
Peruvian cuisine blends Andean staples, coastal seafood and immigrant influences (notably Chinese and Japanese) into regional specialties; markets and street food are central to the experience.
Language
Spanish is the dominant language across Peru; Quechua and Aymara are widely spoken in the highlands and recognized as official in areas where they are predominant. Basic Spanish phrases will cover most traveler needs, though learning a few words of Quechua is appreciated in rural communities.
Useful Phrases
- Hello - Hola OH-lah
- Good morning - Buenos días BWEH-nos DEE-ahs
- How are you? (formal) - ¿Cómo está? KOH-moh ess-TAH
- Where is ...? - ¿Dónde está ...? DOHN-deh ess-TAH
- One ticket, please - Una entrada, por favor OO-nah ehn-TRAH-dah por fah-VOR
- How much does it cost? - ¿Cuánto cuesta? KWAN-toh KWEHS-tah
- The bill, please - La cuenta, por favor lah KWEHN-tah por fah-VOR
- Not spicy, please - Sin picante, por favor seen pee-KAHN-teh por fah-VOR
- Water, please - Agua, por favor AH-gwah por fah-VOR
- Help! - ¡Ayuda! ah-YOO-dah
- I need a doctor - Necesito un médico neh-seh-SEE-toh OON MEH-dee-koh
- Call the police - Llame a la policía YAH-meh ah lah poh-lee-SEE-ah
Responsible Travel in Peru #
Peru’s high Andes and Amazon basin are ecologically and culturally fragile; following park rules, respecting indigenous communities and limiting visitor impact preserves those places for future generations.
- Machu Picchu & trail permits: Follow booking rules and time slots for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail-permits and visitor limits are enforced by SERNANP (SERNANP); book licensed guides and arrive within your assigned slot to reduce overcrowding.
- High‑altitude & trail etiquette: Acclimatize gradually before trekking to Cusco and the Sacred Valley, stick to marked paths on routes like the Inca Trail and Ausangate, and pack out all waste to protect fragile puna ecosystems.
- Indigenous and Amazon communities: When visiting Tambopata, Manu or community lodges, seek tours that pay communities fairly and avoid buying items made from protected wildlife; ask hosts about cultural protocols and photography permissions.
- Rainforest & river safety: Use reputable boats and guides in the Amazon basin, follow guidelines to avoid spreading invasive species between waterways, and respect seasonal restrictions for nesting turtles and riverbank habitats.
- Support local economies: Buy handicrafts directly from artisans in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, eat at family-run restaurants, and tip porters and local guides appropriately rather than using informal intermediaries.
Travel Resources for Peru #
Official
- Peru.travel (Official Tourism) Official Tourism
- Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones (Immigration) Visas
- Peru.gob.pe (Peruvian government portal) Government
Travel Advisories
News & Media
- El Comercio Spanish
- Peru21 Spanish
- Andina (English) English
- The Lima Times English
Useful Links
Useful Apps for Peru
- Google Maps - Navigate cities and find sites like Machu Picchu access points.
- Google Translate - Translate Spanish quickly while traveling in Peru.
- WhatsApp - Common messaging tool for bookings and local contacts.
- Uber - Used in Lima and other major Peruvian cities for rides.