Destination Discovery: Peru

Bienvenidos a Perú: History, Flavor & Scenery

Peru isn’t just one place, it’s a patchwork of unforgettable moments. Lima greets travelers with dramatic coastal views and a culinary scene that’s earned global acclaim. Head inland to the Sacred Valley and the world slows down: farm villages, busy markets, and soaring green hills all invite you to settle in and explore at your own pace. Take it further to Cusco, where Inca roots and colonial vibes mesh in alleyways and plazas, leading inevitably to the legendary peaks of Machu Picchu. The best part? Every step suits couples, culture buffs, and adventure-seekers who want both high-altitude thrills and unexpected moments of calm.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Locals are welcoming, just show respect at holy places and always ask before photos.

• High altitude? Take it easy, drink water, sample coca tea, and give yourself time to acclimate.

• Always stick to bottled water, no matter where you eat.

• Secure tickets early for hot spots like Machu Picchu and top Lima restaurants.

• Tipping is standard at 10% in restaurants.

• Spanish basics: “hola,” “gracias,” and a friendly “por favor” go a long way.

• Carry cash for small towns and market buys, even if cards are accepted most places.

Getting to and Around Peru

Navigating Peru is part of the adventure. Lima’s bustling airport is the main gateway, easily connecting to Cusco and beyond. For the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu, fly through Cusco’s compact but crucial airport. Once on the ground, comfortable private transfers and reliable hotel shuttles are popular and easy. Lima’s Miraflores and Barranco are best explored on foot during the day; further out, Uber makes local transit simple and safe. Most travelers use scenic trains to reach Machu Picchu, while a quick shuttle completes the final leg up to the ruins.

Getting Around Fast Facts:

• Lima: Private transfers, hotel shuttles, and Uber or Cabify are recommended.

• Sacred Valley: Arrange shuttle or a driver for flexibility; shared vans available in a pinch.

• Cusco: Private drivers and walking work best; guided tours often include transportation.

• Machu Picchu: Train to Aguas Calientes, then short shuttle to the site.

When to Visit & How Long to Stay

May to October is prime time for Peru. The dry season brings crisp mountain air, smooth travel, and festivals. If you want less crowds and lush scenery, target May or June. April is a sweet spot in Peru when weather is great in both coastal Lima and in the Andes Mountains, but you beat the peak season crowds. Summer means more people but lively vibes in July or August, while September and October are mild and uncrowded. Seven to ten days is ideal for Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu, with extra time for Lake Titicaca or the Amazon if you want to dig deeper.

Packing and What to Wear

Peru’s landscapes mean quick shifts in climate, so layers are your best friend. Think breezy cotton and linen in Lima, with a sweater or jacket for chilly mornings and sunny afternoons in the mountains. If you’re Amazon-bound, lightweight pants, long sleeve tops and good bug spray are essentials.

What to Pack Fast Facts:

• Lima: Cotton, linen, smart-casual for evenings.

• Cusco/Sacred Valley: Sweaters, jackets, sturdy shoes.

• Amazon: Long sleeves, quick-dry outfits, mosquito protection.

Signature Dishes Worth Traveling For

Food here is an adventure all its own. Lima’s fresh ceviche, anticuchos skewers, and the creamy suspiro limeño dessert set a high bar. Don’t miss a classic pisco sour by the mighty Pacific ocean. Up in the Andes, savor rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy peppers), quinotto (quinoa “risotto”), and grilled alpaca steak. Even the cheese is a must try (especially salty queso sprinkled on top of giant choclo corn).

Local Favorites:

• Lima: Ceviche, anticuchos, tacu tacu, suspiro limeño, pisco sour.

• Cusco/Andes: Rocoto relleno, quinotto, alpaca steak, choclo con queso.

Sample Itinerary

A week in Peru might look something like this:

1-2: Settle into the Sacred Valley, soak in the scenery and local markets.

3-4: Head for Machu Picchu—by train, foot, or both. Sunrise over the ruins is unforgettable.

5-6: Return to Cusco, wander cobbled streets, explore history, and visit local shops.

7: Wrap up in Lima with a breezy walk along the coast and a seafood dinner.

Expand Your Journey

Once you’ve experienced the classics, why not add a jungle lodge in the Amazon, a side trip to Huacachina desert oasis and Paracas nature reserve, or a foray across Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats? Peru’s festivals, from Inti Raymi to Carnival, offer even wilder memories.

Add-Ons:

• Amazon jungle lodges/cruises

• Huacachina desert oasis

• Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia

• Atacama Desert or Galápagos Islands if you’re daring

Amazon Eco Lodge

Huacachina Desert Oasis

Dune buggy in Huacachina at sunset

Paracas National Reserve

Maras, Peru

Peru is a unique blend of ancient civilizations, buzzing food markets, and endless landscapes. Whether you’re chasing festivals or climbing ruins, you’ll find new favorites every step of the way.

What are you waiting for? Book your discovery call today and we can start planning your Peruvian adventure!