Hello, future adventurer! If you’re reading this, you’re probably already dreaming of the majestic Andes mountains, the ruins of Machu Picchu, the Peruvian jungle, and of course, the ceviche that will make your stomach sing with joy. And how great that you’re thinking about traveling to Peru! This country has it all: history, culture, landscapes that look straight out of a movie, and a cuisine that will make you want to move there. But before you dive into your journey, it’s important to prepare just a little bit so everything can be even more epic. Ready to learn how to prepare for your trip to Peru? Here are a bunch of tips that will make you say, “Wow, this is turning out to be more epic than I thought!”
Choose the best time to visit Peru
One of the first things you should consider when preparing for your trip to Peru is when to go. Peru has such diverse geography that the climate can vary greatly depending on the area you visit.
Cusco and Machu Picchu:
If your main goal is to visit the famous tours Machu Picchu ruins, the ideal time to travel is between April and October. These months correspond to the dry season when rain is less frequent, allowing you to enjoy the views without getting wet. However, the high season tends to bring more tourists, especially from June to August. If you prefer to avoid crowds, the months of April and October are ideal, as there are fewer visitors but still good weather.
Lima and the coast:
Lima is the quintessential coastal city, with a temperate climate year-round. If you like sunny days, the best time to visit is from December to April, when the weather is warmer, and you can enjoy the beach and sunshine without the characteristic fog of the low season.
The Amazon Jungle:
If you’re drawn to the idea of exploring the jungle and wildlife, the best months to visit the Amazon are from May to October. During this time, the rain is less intense, making excursions more pleasant. However, if you don’t mind the rain, the low season (from November to April) is quieter, with fewer tourists, offering a more authentic experience.
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Key places to visit:
It’s no surprise, but a trip to Peru has so many magical places that it almost feels like you’re inside an adventure video game! Here are some must-see stops you should consider:
Machu Picchu
It’s impossible to talk about Peru without mentioning Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of global tourism. This ancient Inca sanctuary, nestled high in the Andes, is one of the most visited destinations on the planet. Machu Picchu was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, and since then, it has captivated travelers worldwide with its beauty and mystery.
How to Get There: The most common way to reach Machu Picchu is by taking a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town. The train journey is scenic and comfortable, so you don’t need to be an extreme adventurer to enjoy it. If you’re feeling more energetic, you can opt for the famous Inca Trail, a multi-day hike that leads you directly to Machu Picchu, surrounded by stunning mountain views and Inca ruins. Prepare for a challenge, but the reward is absolutely worth it.
What to do there: Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, take your time exploring every corner of this archaeological site, including the famous Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the agricultural terraces. You can hire a guide to learn more about the history of the site and understand the cultural significance of the Inca civilization.
Cusco
The former Inca capital, Cusco, is like a time capsule that transports you to the past. The city is the ideal starting point for exploring southern Peru and has a unique charm due to its blend of colonial architecture and Inca remnants.
What to do: You can’t miss the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, surrounded by beautiful churches and historic buildings. Visit the imposing Sacsayhuamán, an archaeological site where the massive stones, perfectly fitted together, still amaze visitors. Wander through Cusco’s narrow streets, filled with markets, artisan shops, and live music, which will make you feel part of the city’s daily life.
Explore the surroundings: Cusco is the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region full of picturesque villages, agricultural terraces, and ruins that tell the story of the ancient Inca civilization.
Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is one of the most magical and spiritual places in Peru. Here, you’ll find some of the most impressive and best-preserved Inca temples.
What to visit: In the Sacred Valley, you can explore archaeological sites like Pisac, with its traditional market and mountain ruins, and Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town where you can walk along streets once traversed by ancient inhabitants. Don’t forget to visit the salt mines of Maras, a set of salt pools once used by the Incas to harvest salt.
Additional adventures: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, the Sacred Valley is also perfect for activities like ziplining or rafting along the Urubamba River, giving you new perspectives of the breathtaking landscape.
Arequipa and the Colca Canyon
If your adventurous spirit leads you south, the city of Arequipa and the Colca Canyon will leave you in awe. Arequipa is famous for its colonial white architecture (made from volcanic stone called sillar) and its local cuisine.
What to do: In Arequipa, don’t miss the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by churches and historic buildings, and the Santa Catalina Monastery, a city within a city. If you’re a food lover, try the rocoto relleno (stuffed pepper) and ocopa arequipeña, two of the region’s most popular dishes.
Colca Canyon: Just a few hours from Arequipa, you’ll find the stunning Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes and spot the majestic Andean condors soaring through the sky. This is a perfect location for hiking and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Lake Titicaca
On the Andean high plateau, over 3,800 meters above sea level, lies Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Beyond its impressive altitude, a trip to Peru wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its cultural significance, as it is considered sacred by Andean cultures.
The Uros Islands: One of the most fascinating experiences is visiting the Uros Islands, entirely made of reeds by local communities. You can learn about their history, how they build their floating islands, and how they keep their ancient traditions alive. You can also take a totora reed boat and sail the lake.
Taquile Island: Another must-visit is Taquile Island, where the locals still live by pre-Inca traditions. The people of Taquile are known for their textile skills, and you can see how they create textiles that are recognized as cultural heritage by UNESCO.
The Amazon Jungle
If what you’re after is an adventure deep in nature, Peru’s Amazon offers the chance to explore one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.
Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado: From Iquitos, the gateway to Peru’s rainforest, you can embark on river expeditions to explore the Amazon rivers. Puerto Maldonado, located in southeastern Peru, is another great access point for exploring the tropical rainforest.
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Flights and accommodation: Pack and fly!
The great thing about a trip to Peru is that you can fly to all the major cities via domestic flights, and don’t worry, you won’t need to sell a kidney to afford them. Flights from Lima to Cusco, Arequipa, or Iquitos are quite affordable.
Accommodation: If you’re someone who enjoys a luxury hotel with mountain views, Peru has some of the best, like the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. But if your budget is more limited, don’t worry, there are plenty of hostels, boutique hotels, and Airbnbs where you can rest between all the adventures. There’s always something for every taste and budget — just make sure to book in advance.
Documents: don’t forget your passport
Before you embark on your adventure, make sure your passport is valid (yes, that thing you’ve probably tucked away in a drawer!). Also, if your country requires a visa to enter Peru, don’t leave it until the last minute! Be sure to carry a copy of your flight tickets and your travel insurance details.
If you’re planning to visit the tours Manu, you might need certain vaccinations, such as yellow fever. And while you’re at it, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor for any additional health precautions you should take before your trip.
Get ready for the altitude
One of the most exciting aspects of a trip to Peru is the chance to climb high in the Andes. But before you get all hyped about the cool mountain air and the spectacular Machu Picchu scenery, here’s something you should know: altitude can hit hard if you’re not prepared!
We’re not talking about a few meters above sea level here. In places like Cusco and the Sacred Valley, you’ll be over 3,000 meters high. And let’s be honest: that means less oxygen and, for many, a chance to feel out of breath for no apparent reason. If you’ve ever felt winded after climbing a couple of stairs, you know what we mean. Altitude can mess with you, but don’t worry – we’ve got your back.
So, what can you do to ensure altitude doesn’t catch you off guard?
Acclimatize Slowly: The most important thing is to take it easy. When you arrive in Cusco or other high-altitude places, spend the first 24 hours resting. Don’t rush into climbing up to Saqsaywaman or trekking around town. Instead, explore slowly, sip on some coca tea, and let your body adjust. Trust us, there’s no rush.
Coca Tea: If someone offers you a cup of coca tea, say yes! The coca leaves (which are nothing like the cocaine you may have heard about) are a traditional remedy in the Andes for alleviating altitude sickness. It’ll help you feel better, and it has a refreshing taste perfect for the mountain atmosphere.
Stay Hydrated: Altitude can make you dehydrate without you even noticing. It’s easy to forget that you’re getting dried out when the air is so dry up there. So, always carry a water bottle with you, especially if you’re out exploring or trekking.
Take It Easy: If you’re feeling tired, don’t sweat it! Take a break, breathe deeply, and keep enjoying the scenery. If you’re feeling off, there are also altitude sickness pills available in local pharmacies that can help.
With these tips, altitude won’t stop you from exploring all the amazing things Peru has to offer!
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What to Pack: Only the essentials… and maybe some fancy shoes!
Now, let’s get to the fun part: what to pack for your trip to Peru? Well, Peru has everything: from coastal heat to chilly mountain nights. Here’s an essential list because, let’s face it, no one wants to overpack for their trip to Peru.
Light clothing for the day: Here’s the deal—light and comfortable clothes are a must. T-shirts and shorts are your best friends in places like Lima or the coast. But if you’re going trekking, choose clothes that are both light and functional. Trust me, you’ll be happy for the comfort!
Warm clothing for the night: Even though it might be warm during the day, when night falls, the temperature can drop significantly, especially in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Don’t underestimate the power of a warm jacket, fleece sweater, or even a scarf. You’ll be thankful you packed them!
Sun hat: The Andean sun is stronger than you think! A wide-brimmed hat or cap is a must to keep your face safe from sunburn.
Trekking boots: If you’re planning to walk the Inca trails or explore ruins, sturdy trekking boots are essential. Not only will they protect your feet from rocks, but they’ll also make sure you can hike for hours without your feet hating you.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: As mentioned, the sun can be intense at high altitudes, so sunscreen with high SPF is a must. Don’t forget your sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harsh rays. Trust me, you’ll need both if you’re going for a long hike.
Basic medications: It’s not that you’ll get sick, but it’s always better to be prepared. Pack your paracetamol, band-aids (for those unexpected minor accidents), and any personal medications you might need. Plus, don’t forget your altitude sickness pills, just in case.
Money: Yes, you’ll need Soles!
Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (S/), and although you can widely use credit cards in major tourist spots like Cusco or Lima, carrying some cash with you is still a good idea—especially if you’re heading to more remote areas. You’ll find plenty of ATMs in cities like Lima and Cusco, but if you’re venturing off the beaten path, cash is king.
ATMs are easy to find in major cities, but if you’re heading into rural areas, it’s better to have cash in hand.
And remember: Peru’s markets are full of amazing souvenirs, so having cash ready to haggle over some cute alpaca sweaters or handmade jewelry is always a good idea!
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Learn some spanish phrases, It’ll make you feel like a local
Trip to Peru is known for its friendly people, but like in any other place, knowing a few local phrases will always help. Here are some useful words and phrases that will make you feel like you’re a local:
- ¡Hola! (This is the basic one—you’ll use it a lot!)
- ¿Cuánto cuesta? (You’ll definitely use this when shopping in the markets.)
- ¿Dónde está el baño? (Trust me, you’ll need this one!)
- Gracias (Don’t forget to say thanks, especially when someone does you a favor!)
- ¿Me puede ayudar? (If you ever get lost or need help, this one will save you!)
- With these phrases, you’ll blend right in with the locals and might even strike up a chat with the vendor at the market while bargaining over a beautiful alpaca scarf!
Preparing for your trip to Peru isn’t complicated, but it does require some advance planning. From choosing the best time to travel, booking your flights and accommodation, to packing smartly and preparing for the altitude, these steps will help ensure you have a successful experience in Peru. Whether you trek the Inca Trail, explore the Amazon jungle, or enjoy the culinary delights, being well-prepared will make your journey even more memorable.
So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most fascinating countries in the world! Safe travels!
