Planning for an Epic Peru Adventure, or Mountain Biking Tour or Safari Holiday in the Amazon Rainforest? Peru is the Perfect Destination for you!
Anyone can say you should visit a particular country in the world, but how do you know it is right for you? Peru is on many a bucket list for various reasons, ranging from hiking to the ruins of Machu Picchu to exploring colonial Lima. While you might agree that it is an amazing place, perhaps you need a little more convincing before dropping all of your other dream destinations and letting Peru take the top spot. Well, you’re in luck! Here you can find out everything you will want to know to figure out if you should travel to Peru!
What kind of traveler is Peru suited for?
Peru is marketed mainly as a Perfect destination for adventure, mostly due to its mountainous landscape and the famous Amazon Rainforest. There is plenty of hiking involved in many tours (whether they are multiple-day or single-day expeditions) and plenty of wildlife to see, from llamas to the incredible diversity of the Amazon.
For those not exercise-inclined, there are plenty of options for you, as well. History buffs will love the culture, historical ruins, and those who love souvenirs and wandering towns and cities will take joy in the colorful markets.
Peru is very well suited for budget-conscious backpackers, with plenty of hostels making it easy to find friends to explore the country together. Guesthouses are also popular, and an equally inexpensive method for accommodation in Peru. If you are willing to spend more money, there is a good range of mid-range hotels in Peru for comfortable stays in wild and city locations alike. Because of Peru’s popularity, it caters to any kind of traveler.
Peru is one of those places that feels like you are transported completely to another time, especially when you get away from the cities. It evokes spirituality and old-world feel as you wander through the ruins of Machu Picchu or stroll through the cobblestone streets of Cusco. The country is a colorful and exotic and cozy destination, all wrapped up into one place alongside kind and friendly locals and incredible food.
When should I visit Peru?
This is one of the common questions you may ask before planning your holiday to Peru!
Most people travel to Peru during the dry season, which is May to October. If hiking is what you are after, then April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit, and if an iconic trip to the Amazon is high on your priority list, earlier in the dry season is ideal.
The rainy season, from November to March, often offers cheaper flights and accommodation and fewer visitors (except during the Christmas holidays). However, the weather is far less reliable during this time, with cloudy and rainy afternoons.
Peru has such a diverse offering – a dream destination for adventurous souls. You can see desert dunes, ancient valleys, wild jungle, (and one of the seven world wonders, of course).
How much time do I need in Peru?
How much time to spend in Peru is of course dependent on many factors: where you are traveling from, what you want to see, and how much of the country that covers, plus more.
Peru is a large country and it can be difficult to get from one place to another if they are far apart. When making your itinerary, make sure to have a look at a map and transport options for where you want to go, as you may have to make adjustments – like sacrificing one place or extending your trip – in order to make the most of your time in Peru.
When taking into consideration the typical itineraries for Peru, if you are looking only to do the Inca Trail or similar, seven or eight days is possible, but you should be spending a couple or a few days acclimatizing to the altitude in Cusco before you start with the trek to Machu Picchu. With more of what the country has to offer added, itineraries can start from 14 or 15 days.
The ideal amount of time would be three weeks, if you want to see Lima, Cusco, do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and visit the Amazon. Each of these places requires at least a few days and when adding in acclimatization and travel time, three weeks should allow for a comfortable pace in Peru.
Peru is one of my favorite destinations in South America. It is unique and still has numerous areas yet to be discovered. Not only amazing landscapes but also huge cultural, historical and gastronomic possibilities, it is definitely a country worth exploring.
Suitable for all the travel budgets and styles, from the most adventurous to the ones interested in history and traditions. Peru is full of beauty that will make any traveler’s memories the best they can even have.
What do I need to know before I go?
- Peru is a beautiful country and its culture is fascinating to immerse yourself in, but of course, respect must be shown and it’s best to go in with an understanding that a lot of aspects are unlike English-speaking cultures.
- Prepare yourself with some Spanish, as although most touristy areas will have people speaking at least Basic English, it is always a good idea to be able to converse as much as you can, especially if you are planning on bartering at markets or getting into conversations with locals.
- When hiking the Inca Trail or similar, you will need a few days to adjust to the altitude in Cusco. Rest for a few hours after you arrive and then take it easy for the next couple of days – you may be fooled into thinking you’re fine and want to get exploring, but you may still be running on sea-level oxygen and it’s best for your health to only exert more energy after you’ve adjusted.
Is it safe? Could I travel solo in Peru?
As Peru is popular, it is quite safe, but this varies from area to area and between neighborhoods. For example, in Lima, situating yourself in the Miraflores district will introduce Peruvian culture, but in the downtown core, you should keep more alert and ensure you’re not a victim of pickpocketing.
Essentially, if you behave as you would anywhere else and know the customs of the country, you will be perfectly safe.
Peru provided an out-of-this-world experience in both culture and diverse landscapes. As I explored on my motorcycle I was subjected to the most stunning scenery through the Andes and welcomed warmly by the Peruvian people into their homes in the most remote of places. A unique experience I’ll never forget. Everyone, at some point in their life, should visit one of the wonders and gems this world has to offer.
Activities in Peru
Find Machu Picchu
Whether it’s via the renowned Inca Trail (always remember, permits are limited each year so book early!), the alternative trails such as the Salkantay or Lares Trek, or simply just using PeruRail to get there, the sight of Machu Picchu may be incredibly famous, but for good reason. See for yourself the secret Incan city that’s astounded people for years.
Explore the Amazon Rainforest
The Peruvian part of the Amazon is perhaps the most diverse of all, with limitless adventure possibilities. Paddle on the Amazon River, watching a range of wildlife from parrots to caiman, or venture into the depths of the rainforest on a volunteering project. It’s a truly unique experience you won’t be in a rush to forget.
Taste the cuisine
Peru isn’t an only physical adventure; its cuisine is one for the brave. The most strange and famous dish is cuy (guinea pig), which is usually found in higher altitude towns like Cusco. For those that (understandably) want to pass on that, there is wonderful food to be found all over the country, including fresh seafood, stews, and chocolate.
