Nestled in South America, Peru is a captivating destination that beckons travellers with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring ancient ruins like the iconic Machu Picchu to savouring world-renowned dishes in the vibrant city of Lima, Peru offers a diverse array of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the ancient Incan civilization at sites like Sacsayhuamán and Ollantaytambo or wander through colonial architecture in Cusco’s charming streets. The Amazon rainforest provides an opportunity for nature lovers to explore biodiversity unlike anywhere else on Earth.
For those seeking culinary delights, Peru boasts a world-renowned gastronomic scene with dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado tantalising taste buds. Whether you’re drawn to the Andean highlands or the coastal deserts, Peru promises adventure and luxury around every corner.
Immerse yourself in Peruvian traditions by witnessing colourful festivals and engaging with local communities. Whether exploring bustling markets in Lima or connecting with Quechua villagers in remote villages, every moment spent here promises an unforgettable cultural experience.
The best time of year to visit Peru
Peru is a country with diverse climates and landscapes, making it a year-round destination for travellers seeking adventure and culture. The best time to visit Peru largely depends on the region you plan to explore.
If you’re dreaming of hiking the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or exploring the Sacred Valley, the dry season from May to September is ideal. During these months, the weather is typically clear with sunny days and cool nights, perfect for outdoor activities.
For those looking to experience Peruvian festivals like Inti Raymi in Cusco or Virgen de la Candelaria in Puno, consider visiting during the summer months of December to March. These vibrant celebrations showcase traditional music, dance, and colourful costumes that are not to be missed.
In contrast, if you’re interested in exploring the Amazon rainforest or coastal regions like Lima and Paracas, consider visiting during Peru’s winter months from April to October when temperatures are milder and rainfall is minimal.
What to pack for a trip to Peru
As you prepare for this journey, a comprehensive travel checklist is crucial for guaranteeing that you make your way through Peru’s diverse places easily. Here are some of the essentials required to make your Peruvian adventure a success.
Essential documents such as your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance policy, flight and accommodation confirmations as well as emergency contact information and copies of medical prescriptions should be kept in your hand luggage. It’s important to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return date and medical prescriptions are important in case you need to prove it’s for personal use or need a refill in Peru.
When it comes to packing the right clothing for your trip, it will depend on where you are going and the activities you plan to undertake and can include anything from swimwear to hiking gear to formal wear.
The key to comfort in Peru’s diverse climates is layering so be sure to include lightweight clothing for traveling to warmer areas and warmer layers for cooler highland regions. Durable, comfortable walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring ruins and trails, while sandals or light shoes are suitable for coastal and urban areas.
A waterproof jacket or poncho is essential, especially if traveling to Peru during the rainy season (November to March) and high-altitude areas and equatorial sun mean high UV exposure, so pack sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. Also consider clothing treated with permethrin if you’re heading into areas with high mosquito activity, such as the Amazon Basin. For day trips and excursions, a comfortable daypack is essential to carry water, snacks, and your camera.
Don’t forget to pack basic first aid supplies and any personal medications. Altitude sickness pills can be beneficial for those planning to visit high-altitude areas like Cusco or Lake Titicaca. Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink, so bring water purification tablets or a travel water filter to stay hydrated and healthy.
When it comes to gadgets and accessories, remember to pack a power adapter: Peru uses Type A and C electrical outlets, so ensure you have the right adapter for your devices. A portable charger will also come in handy to ensure your devices remain powered up throughout extended days of exploration, while a camera is a must to capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures. Don’t forget extra batteries or a charger.
Headphones or earplugs are ideal for long bus rides or flights and to help ensure a good night’s sleep in noisy areas, while a lightweight travel tripod is a great item for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the perfect sunrise or sunset shot in Peru’s stunning landscapes.
A Spanish phrasebook may very well come in handy as English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas, and learning some basic Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience.
Top 8 things to do in Peru
Peru offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences for luxury travellers. Here are eight of the best things to do.
1. Begin your journey by exploring the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking views that this ancient Incan citadel has to offer.
2. For thrill-seekers, embark on a trek along the Inca Trail, where you can witness stunning landscapes and archaeological sites along the way. Marvel at the beauty of Sacred Valley or take a scenic train ride through lush mountains to reach Aguas Calientes.
3. Indulge in Peru’s diverse culinary scene by sampling traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa rellena. Don’t forget to try Peru’s national drink, Pisco Sour!
4. Discover the mysterious Nazca Lines from above on a thrilling flight tour or explore Colca Canyon for an opportunity to spot Andean condors soaring overhead.
5. Unwind on Peru’s pristine beaches like Mancora or Paracas, where you can relax under the sun or partake in water sports like surfing and snorkelling.
6. Immerse yourself in Peruvian culture by visiting local markets like Pisac Market or exploring historical sites such as Sacsayhuaman and Ollantaytambo.
7. Venture into the Amazon Rainforest for a wildlife adventure unlike any other. Spot exotic animals like sloths, monkeys, and colourful birds while cruising along winding rivers.
8. Spend time wandering through charming colonial towns like Arequipa and Cusco, each boasting unique architecture and cultural heritage worth discovering.
The cuisine of Peru
When it comes to exploring Peru, one cannot overlook the vibrant and diverse cuisine that this South American country has to offer. Peruvian food is a delightful mix of indigenous flavours, European influences, and Asian culinary traditions.
One of the most iconic dishes in Peru is ceviche, a refreshing dish made from fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices like lime or lemon, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and other seasonings. Another must-try is Lomo Saltado, a stir-fry dish blending Chinese and Peruvian flavours with tender strips of beef or alpaca meat cooked with tomatoes, onions, and soy sauce.
For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on trying Picarones – deep-fried doughnut-like treats drizzled with molasses syrup; they are simply irresistible! And let’s not forget about sipping on some Pisco Sour while enjoying the beautiful sunsets over Lima or Cusco.
Peru truly offers a gastronomic adventure that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
