Peru is one of South America’s most diverse destinations: ancient civilizations, dramatic Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, colonial cities, and world-class cuisine. The highlight for many travelers is the legendary Inca citadel Machu Picchu, but there’s much more beyond it.
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May–September)
Best for trekking and visiting Machu Picchu
Clear skies in the Andes
Peak tourist season (June–August)
Shoulder seasons (April & October)
Good weather
Fewer crowds
Rainy season (November–March)
Lush landscapes
Amazon is great
Some trekking routes muddy
Top Places to Visit
1. Cusco – Gateway to the Inca World
Cusco
Former capital of the Inca Empire and starting point for most adventures.
Highlights:
Sacsayhuamán fortress
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Historic Plaza de Armas
Access to the Sacred Valley
2. Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Things to know:
Located high in the Andes
Usually accessed via train from Ollantaytambo
Alternatively hike the famous Inca Trail
Tip: Book tickets months in advance.
3. Lima – Food Capital of South America
Lima
Peru’s coastal capital with incredible food and colonial architecture.
Things to see:
Plaza Mayor de Lima
Huaca Pucllana
Miraflores coastal cliffs
Famous restaurants:
Central
Maido
4. Sacred Valley
Sacred Valley
A beautiful valley between Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Must-see sites:
Moray (circular terraces)
Maras Salt Mines
Pisac market
5. Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca
The highest navigable lake in the world.
Visit:
Uros Floating Islands
Taquile Island
Base city: Puno
6. Amazon Rainforest
Amazon Rainforest
Best accessed from:
Puerto Maldonado
Iquitos
Activities:
Jungle trekking
Wildlife spotting (monkeys, macaws, pink dolphins)
River cruises
Food to Try
Peru has one of the world’s best cuisines.
Must-try dishes:
Ceviche – raw fish cured in citrus
Lomo Saltado – beef stir-fry with fries
Aji de Gallina – creamy chicken stew
Causa – layered potato dish
Drinks:
Pisco Sour (national cocktail)
Getting Around
Main travel methods:
Domestic flights – fastest between major regions
Train to Machu Picchu – from Ollantaytambo
Long-distance buses – comfortable and cheap
Uber / taxis in major cities
Sample 10-Day Itinerary
Day 1–2 – Lima
Food tour, museums, Miraflores.
Day 3–4 – Cusco
Acclimatize to altitude, explore Inca sites.
Day 5–6 – Sacred Valley
Pisac, Moray, Maras.
Day 7 – Machu Picchu
Day 8–9 – Lake Titicaca
Day 10 – Return to Lima.
Travel Tips
Altitude sickness
Cusco is 3,400 m high
Take it slow first day
Drink coca tea
Cash is useful
Many small places don’t accept cards.
Book Machu Picchu early
Tickets sell out weeks or months ahead.
Learn a few Spanish phrases
English is less common outside tourist areas.
Typical budget per day
Budget: $35–60
Mid-range: $80–150
Luxury: $250+