Discover Peru in 11-days journey through Peru on your preferred dates, with guaranteed departures from just two travelers and expertly guided tours ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience throughout.
In each destination, you’ll join well-organized group tours, offering a social atmosphere while maintaining comfort and expert guidance. Your adventure begins in Lima before continuing to the White City of Arequipa and the spectacular landscapes of Colca Canyon. Continue through the Andean highlands to Puno and legendary Lake Titicaca, where you will visit traditional island communities.
Next Departure Dates
Departure Date
Flexible Booking
Status
Price per person
June 1, 2026 - June 10, 2026
Book Now with low desposit
$1100 USD
June 20, 2026 - June 29, 2026
Book Now with low desposit
$1100 USD
Peru
Discover Peru - Group Tours 11Days / 10Nights
New Regulations
Discover Peru Packages includes entrance to Machu Picchu through Circuit 2, the most requested route because it offers the most complete experience within the citadel, available only if reserved in advance.
If Circuit 2 is sold out for your travel date, we will arrange your entrance through Circuit 3 or Circuit 1, according to official availability.
Circuit 3: does not include the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Circuit 1: includes the panoramic terraces but does not allow access to the lower part of the citadel.
Once we confirm which circuit is included in your tour, you will have the option to purchase an additional entrance ticket for the circuit you wish to visit (subject to availability) for an extra cost of $50 per person. This allows you to enjoy a more complete experience at Machu Picchu.
Visitors must board the bus to Machu Picchu 40 minutes to 1 hour before the entry time printed on their ticket. This helps prevent long lines in Machu Picchu Pueblo and avoids congestion at the entrance gates of the Inca citadel.
For more detailed information about the different circuits and specific entrance schedules, we invite you to read this link on Schedules and New Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu or to contact us directly. We can provide you with all the necessary information and address any questions you may have.
Summary
Overview of Discover Peru 11 Days / 10
Day 1:
Arrival in Lima & Optional Lima City Tour
Arrival in Lima, reception at Jorge Chavez Airport, and private transfer to your hotel. Free afternoon and overnight in Lima.
Day 2:
Lima to Arequipa
Discover the White City of Arequipa at the foot of the imposing Misti volcano.
Day 3:
Arequipa Colca Canyon
Immerse yourself in the depths of the earth, touring the enchanting Colca Canyon.
Day 4:
Colca Puno
Appreciate the imposing Andean condor and enjoy lunch in the middle of the Colca Canyon.
Day 5:
Puno Lake Titicaca
Navigate on Lake Titicaca, between myths and legends, while discovering dream islands.
Day 6:
Puno – Route of the Sun to Cusco
Explore ancient Andean treasures along the Route of the Sun heading to Cusco.
Day 7:
Cusco free morning and afternoon Cusco City tour
Explore the magical city of Cusco, the enigmatic heart of the Inca Empire.
Day 8:
Sacred Valley Tour with Salt Mines & Moray – Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Visit Chinchero, Moray, the Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo. In the evening, train journey to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.
Day 9:
Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and be transferred to Cusco Airport for your onward journey. If your flight is later in the day, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or exploring nearby attractions. Upon your arrival in Lima, you will connect with your international flight back to your country.
Day 10:
Rainbow Mountain Tour
Round-trip transportation, professional guide, breakfast, buffet lunch, and entrance to Rainbow Mountain.
Day 11:
Good bye Cusco
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and be transferred to Cusco Airport for your onward journey. If your flight is later in the day, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or exploring nearby attractions. Upon your arrival in Lima, you will connect with your international flight back to your country.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lima & Optional Lima City Tour
Highlight of the day: Arrival in Peru’s vibrant capital and time to relax or explore at your own pace.
Welcome to Peru! We know how exhausting international flights can be, so upon your arrival in the Peruvian capital, we will make your arrival as smooth and stress-free as possible. Your Inti Sun Trek representative will be waiting for you at Lima Airport, holding a sign with your name, to welcome you and transfer you comfortably to your selected hotel.
After checking in, you can take time to relax, enjoy a refreshing shower, and recover from your journey. If you prefer, you may also explore the nearby areas or enjoy Peru’s world-famous gastronomy with lunch at your hotel or at one of the many excellent local restaurants (meals not included).
Depending on your arrival time, you also have the option to join the Lima City Tour, available daily at 8:30 AM or 2:00 PM. During the tour, you will explore the three stages of Lima: Ancestral, Colonial, and Modern Lima. Highlights include a panoramic view of the Huaca Pucllana Pyramid, the Historic Center of Lima with its impressive colonial architecture, the San Francisco Convent and Catacombs, and the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores.
The tour also includes a visit to the Central Reserve Bank Museum, where you can admire an important collection of pre-Columbian gold, ceramics, and textiles.
Note: The Central Reserve Bank Museum is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays.
If you prefer not to join the city tour, you can explore Lima at your own pace by visiting the district of Miraflores, one of the city’s most popular tourist areas. You may enjoy a walk through Kennedy Park or go shopping at the famous Larcomar shopping center, located along the Pacific coast.
In the evening, we highly recommend enjoying dinner at Central or Maido, both recognized among the best restaurants in the world by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Due to high demand, advance reservations are highly recommended
Overnight in Lima.
Included meals: None.
Day 2: Lima to Arequipa
Highlight of the day: Discover the charm of Arequipa, explore its famous sillar quarries, and enjoy spectacular views of the majestic Misti Volcano.
From your airplane window, you will see the beautiful Peruvian coastline and the Andes Mountains as you approach Arequipa. The impressive Misti Volcano will welcome you to this beautiful city. Known as La Ciudad Blanca (The White City), Arequipa is famous for its beautiful churches, colonial mansions, convents, and historic buildings made from sillar, a white volcanic stone that gives the city its unique appearance.
Upon arrival in Arequipa, your Inti Sun Trek
representative will be waiting for you at Arequipa Airport, holding a sign with your name, to welcome you and transfer you comfortably to your selected hotel.
You will have some free time to relax, do laundry, or explore the Plaza de Armas on your own, surrounded by the Cathedral and charming colonial arcades. You will also visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, located near the main square.
Around 1:00 p.m., we will pick you up from your hotel or the main plaza and head toward the famous sillar quarries. Along the way, your guide will explain how this volcanic stone was used to build many of Arequipa’s historic monuments.
Our first stop will be the Zamácola viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.
Next, we will visit the quarries where the white volcanic stone is extracted. Here, you will see the enormous carved stone blocks and learn about the traditional techniques that local workers still use today.
The tour continues to the Virgen de Culebrillas Quarry, a fascinating place with narrow canyon walls and ancient petroglyphs left by earlier cultures. You will also learn about apachetas (small stone pyramids) and have the opportunity to build your own.
After the tour, we will return to the city center by private transportation.
In the evening, you will have free time to visit local restaurants or cafés and try traditional dishes such as rocoto relleno or adobo arequipeño.
Overnight in Arequipa.
Included meals: None
Day 3: Arequipa Colca Canyon
Highlight of the day: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Colca Canyon and witness the majestic Andean condor soaring above one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Your adventure to one of the deepest canyons in the world begins very early in the morning. Around 3:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa and begin our scenic journey through the Peruvian highlands toward Colca Canyon.
Along the route, you will pass through breathtaking Andean landscapes surrounded by volcanoes, mountains, and traditional villages. We will make several stops at viewpoints where you can admire herds of llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas in their natural habitat.
After approximately 3 hours of travel, we will arrive in the town of Chivay, where you will enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, we will continue toward the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, the most spectacular observation point in Colca Canyon. Here, you will have the opportunity to admire the immense depth of the canyon and, weather permitting, observe the majestic Andean condor soaring above the valley.
Following the visit to Cruz del Cóndor, we will return through the Colca Valley, stopping at picturesque villages such as Maca and Yanque, known for their colonial churches, traditional culture, and local handicrafts.
Along the way, your guide will explain the history, culture, and impressive agricultural terraces built by ancient civilizations that still shape the landscape today.
Later, we will return to Chivay, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Colca Canyon. The rest of the afternoon will be free for you to relax, enjoy dinner on your own, or explore the surrounding area at your leisure. Optionally, you may also choose to visit the La Calera Hot Springs independently.
Overnight in Colca Canyon.
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 4: Colca Canyon – Chiva to Puno
Highlight of the day: Enjoy a spectacular journey through the Andean highlands, surrounded by volcanoes, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes on the way to Puno and legendary Lake Titicaca
After breakfast at your hotel, we will begin our scenic journey from Chivay to Puno, traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
Along the route, you will enjoy spectacular views of mountains, volcanoes, high-altitude lagoons, and wide plains inhabited by llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. This route is considered one of the most scenic journeys in southern Peru.
During the trip, we will make several short stops at panoramic viewpoints where you can take photos and appreciate the beauty of the Andean highlands. As we continue toward Puno, your guide will share information about the local culture, wildlife, and traditional communities that inhabit this remote region of Peru. After approximately 6 hours of travel, we will arrive in Puno, located on the shores of the legendary Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Upon arrival, our representative will transfer you to your selected hotel. The remainder of the afternoon will be free for you to relax, explore the city on your own, or enjoy the beautiful lake views.
Overnight in Puno.
Included meals: Breakfast.
Day 5: Puno – Lake Titicaca
Highlight of the day: Discover the ancestral traditions of the Uros people and enjoy breathtaking views while navigating the legendary waters of Lake Titicaca.
Today, you will explore the legendary waters of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world and one of the most sacred places in Andean culture.
After breakfast at your hotel, we will transfer you to the port of Puno, where you will board a comfortable tourist boat to begin your full-day excursion across the lake.
Our first stop will be the famous Uros Floating Islands, a unique group of artificial islands built entirely from totora reeds by the local Uros people. During your visit, you will learn about their ancestral traditions, daily life, and the fascinating way they continue preserving their culture on the lake.
After visiting the Uros Islands, we will continue by boat toward Taquile Island, a peaceful island known for its stunning landscapes, agricultural terraces, and rich textile traditions recognized by UNESCO.
Upon arrival, you will enjoy a scenic walk through the island while admiring spectacular views of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding Andes Mountains. Local residents dressed in traditional clothing will warmly welcome you and share insights into their customs and way of life.
Later, you will enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients while overlooking the beautiful lake. After lunch, you will have some free time to explore the island, take photos, or shop for handmade textiles crafted by the local community. In the afternoon, we will board the boat for the return journey to Puno. Upon arrival at the port, our representative will transfer you back to your hotel.
Overnight in Puno.
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 6: Route of the Sun: Puno to Cusco
Highlight of the day: Journey through the breathtaking Andean landscapes of the Route of the Sun while discovering ancient Inca sites and colonial treasures on the way to Cusco.
After breakfast at your hotel, we will transfer you to the bus station to begin your unforgettable journey along the famous Route of the Sun, one of the most scenic and cultural routes in Peru.
During this full-day trip from Puno to Cusco, you will travel through spectacular Andean landscapes, traditional villages, and important archaeological and colonial sites while learning about the rich history and culture of the region.
Our first stop will be the Lithic Museum of Pucará, a small archaeological site known for its ancient stone sculptures and pre-Inca culture.
We will then continue through the highlands toward La Raya Pass, the highest point of the journey at over 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and the surrounding Andean scenery.
Afterward, we will stop for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant offering a variety of traditional Andean and international dishes.
In the afternoon, we will visit Raqchi, an important Inca archaeological complex dedicated to the god Wiracocha. Your guide will explain the fascinating history and significance of this impressive site.
The final stop before arriving in Cusco will be the Church of Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” because of its beautiful murals, gold decorations, and colonial artwork.
Upon arrival in Cusco in the evening, our representative will meet you at the bus station and transfer you to your selected hotel.
Overnight in Cusco.
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 7 –Cusco free morning and afternoon Cusco City tour
Highlight of the day: Explore the fascinating Inca and colonial heritage of Cusco while visiting impressive archaeological sites and the historic heart of the ancient Inca capital.
Enjoy a relaxing morning at your own pace in the historic city of Cusco. You may choose to rest, explore the nearby streets and cafés, shop for local handicrafts, or simply take time to acclimatize to the altitude.
At 1:00.p.m. Your guide will meet you at the Main Square to begin your fascinating Cusco City Tour, exploring some of the most important historical and archaeological sites of the former capital of the Inca Empire
The tour begins in Cusco’s historic center, where you will visit the Plaza de Armas and admire the impressive colonial architecture built on Inca foundations. You will also visit the famous Qorikancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, one of the most important religious centers of the Inca civilization.
Afterward, we will head to the surrounding archaeological sites located above the city. The first stop will be Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca fortress famous for its enormous stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. The tour continues with visits to the nearby archaeological sites of Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, each offering a unique glimpse into Inca engineering, spirituality, and history.
At the end of the tour, we will drive back down to Cusco, where the tour will end at the Main Square. You can then enjoy a relaxing evening and have dinner at one of Cusco’s local restaurants
Overnight in Cusco.
Included meals: Breakfast.
Day 8 –Sacred Valley Tour with Salt Mines & Moray – Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: Enjoy the amazing spectacular views of the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake
We will pick up you from your hotel in Cusco at 6:30 a.m. and travel for one hour by tourist van to Chinchero, a small village with beautiful views of the Sacred Valley. In this charming village, you will see adobe homes, narrow cobbled streets, and people in traditional Peruvian dress. Here, the villagers still practice many Incan traditions and crafts. If you wish, you will see a demonstration of how wool is washed and dyed using native plants and minerals Also the beautiful INKA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SIDE AND COLONIAL TEMPLE OF CHENCHERO.
We will then continue our journey to MORAY in order to see the fascinating site used by the Incas for agricultural experiments and cultivating seeds. There, you will learn how they cleverly designed a drainage system at the bottom of the terraces in order to avoid flooding during the rainy season.
After the tour of Moray, you will take a 20 minute bus ride to THE SALT MINES OF MARAS. At this amazing site, you can see the pans fed by saline spring water that were built on steep terraces along one side of a narrow valley. The water is sent throughout the pans by a network of channels where the water slowly evaporates leaving the salt behind. Salt has been collected from Maras since Pre-Incan times and it is thought that a collective of salt ‘miners’ has maintained the terraces and channels for hundreds of years. Then we will follow the beautiful route to Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley, where we will stop for a BUFFET LUNCH.
We will continue our scenic journey to the amazing town of OLLANTAYTAMBO. Ollantaytambo is a classic Incan city which conserved the traditional Incan urban construction of narrow streets adjacent to flowing streams. As you walk through the stone streets, the gentle sound of flowing water will make it easy for you to imagine the city as it was in the time of the Incas. In the upper part of the town, there is an impressive ceremonial center that was used for water worship and also a mighty fortress that protected the access point to the lower part of the valley
Finally, you will board the 4:30 p.m train to Aguas Calientes, After an hour and forty minute journey through the Andes, you will arrive at the Aguas Calientes train station, where you will be greeted by our staff and escorted to your hotel and hostel. Here you can relax and rest before your day at Machu Picchu. At dinner, you will be briefed on the next day´s tour.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 9 – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Highlight of the day: Explore the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Visiting Machu Picchu
There are two ways to reach Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes:
Hike: For a more active experience, you can hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, which takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Bus: The fastest and easiest option. Buses take you directly to the entrance of the site. Each journey lasts 25 minutes, and the tickets is included in the tour package
New Entry Regulations
Your entry time will depend on how early you booked the tour and the circuit you’re assigned
Inside Machu Picchu
Once inside the Inca citadel, you’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting approximately two hours. You’ll explore the most important sectors of this ancient wonder, including temples, houses, terraces, and agricultural areas. The ingenuity of Inca engineering—far ahead of its time—continues to inspire awe and curiosity to this day.
After the Tour
Once your visit to Machu Picchu is over, you’ll take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes. In town, you’ll find plenty of great spots to relax and enjoy lunch. After your meal, make your way to the train station in time for your return departure
Can I Still Climb Huayna Picchu?
Yes, you may still have the chance to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain, but please note:
The climb is only allowed in the morning and is split into two entry groups:
Group 1: 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Group 2: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
You can choose to climb either before or after your scheduled visit to Machu Picchu, depending on availability and your ticket.
Note: Machu Picchu Inca site is different from Machu Picchu Mountain. When most people refer to Machu Picchu, they are referring to the archeological site. Machu Picchu Mountain requires a separate permit to climb. Please notify us if you are interested and we can book this for you. It must be done in advance and is a part of your entry into the site
Overnight in Cusco
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 10 – Rainbow Mountain Tour
Highlight of the day: Hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain and admire its vibrant natural colors.
Your day will begin with an early pickup from your accommodation in Cusco, between 4:30 and 5:00 am. Our private transportation will take you from the south of Cusco to the town of Cusipata. The transfer lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival in Cusipata, we will have breakfast. After breakfast, we will continue our trip to the Rainbow Mountain for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. On the way to the mountain, you will have the chance to enjoy beautiful landscapes and to see the wildlife.
We will start our adventure with a walk uphill for about 1 hour and a half, appreciating in the background snowy mountains and wonderful landscapes. Then, we will finally reach the point to which we will be able to appreciate the colors of the Rainbow Mountain and the stunning view it offers.
After visiting and taking pictures, we will return the same way we came with a 1.5-hours hike, have lunch, and start the drive back to Cusco, arriving between 5:00 and 5:30 pm.
Overnight in Cusco
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 11 – Good Bye Cusco
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and be transferred to Cusco Airport for your onward journey. If your flight is later in the day, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or exploring nearby attractions. Upon your arrival in Lima, you will connect with your international flight back to your country.
Options Pricing
Tour and Guided Services Only
USD$1100.00Per Person
In this tour price option, you have the flexibility to book your own hotels or accommodation, and we will exclusively handle organizing the tours. We will provide experienced guides, manage all the transportation, transfers, and cover all the tickets for the various tours that will take place throughout the entire itinerary of your 9-day / 8-night vacation in Peru.
Basic and Comfortable Hotels
USD$1550.00Per Person
In this tour price option, we will exclusively take care of organizing all the reservations for basic yet super comfortable hotels, as well as coordinating the tours. We will provide experienced guides, manage all the transportation, transfers, and cover all the tickets for the various tours that will take place throughout the entire itinerary of your 9-day / 8-night vacation in Peru.
Only Comfortable Hotels
USD$1850.00Per Person
In this tour price option, we will exclusively take care of organizing all reservations for comfortable 2 to 3-star hotels, as well as coordinating the tours. We will provide experienced guides, manage all transportation, transfers, and cover all the tickets for the various tours that will take place throughout the entire itinerary of your 9-day / 8-night vacation in Peru.
Hotel booking is subject to availability of spaces.
The cost of the tour packages are based on double or matrimonial room. For an individual room an extra payment has to be made.
Prices do not include VAT for Peruvian passengers.
Please note that meals are not included on this tour; however, with several excellent restaurants in Cusco, you will have no trouble finding plenty to eat!
You can read all our reviews and recommendation in Tripadvisor: TRIPADVISOR INTI SUN TREK
Inclusions
Included in your Peru Travel 11 Days:
- Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Private transfer to your selected hotel. Free afternoon at leisure. - Day 2: Lima – Arequipa
Private ransfer from your hotel to Lima Airport for your domestic flight to Arequipa. Upon arrival, private transfer to your selected hotel. Afternoon Sillar Route Tour: including tourist transportation, professional guide, and entrance to the sillar quarries. - Day 3: Arequipa – Colca Canyon
Hotel pick-up, tourist transportation to Colca Canyon, professional guide, breakfast,entrance fees, visits to Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint and traditional villages, lunch, and overnight in Colca Canyon. - Day 4: Colca Canyon – Puno
Breakfast at the hotel, tourist transportation from Colca Canyon to Puno with scenic stops along the route, and transfer to your selected hotel in Puno. - Day 5: Lake Titicaca Full-Day Tour
Hotel pick-up, boat excursion on Lake Titicaca, visits to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island, professional guide, entrance fees, traditional lunch, and transfer back to your hotel. - Day 6: Puno – Route of the Sun to Cusco
Transfer to the bus station, tourist bus along the Route of the Sun with guided visits to Pucará, La Raya Pass, Raqchi, and Andahuaylillas Church, buffet lunch,entrance fees and transfer to your hotel in Cusco. - Day 7: Cusco Free Morning & Afternoon City Tour
Free morning at leisure. Afternoon Cusco City Tour including transportation, professional guide, and visits to Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.entrace fees - Day 8: Sacred Valley Tour with Salt Mines & Moray – Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Hotel pick-up, guided Sacred Valley tour including Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo, entrance fees, buffet lunch, afternoon train to Aguas Calientes, and overnight at your selected hotel. - Day 9: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu, entrance ticket, professional guided tour, return train to Ollantaytambo, and private transportation back to Cusco. - Day 10: Rainbow Mountain Tour
Round-trip transportation, professional guide, breakfast, buffet lunch, and entrance to Rainbow Mountain. - Day 11: Goodbye Cusco
Transfer from your hotel to Cusco Airport. Upon arrival in Lima, connect with your international flight back home. End of our services.Accommodation Included:1 night in Lima
1 night in Arequipa
1 night in Colca Canyon
2 nights in Puno
3 nights in Cusco
1 night in Aguas Calientes
Not Included in your Discover Peru 11 Days:
- All breakfast, lunchs and dinners that are not mentioned in the tour itinerary
- Flights (Lima – Cusco – Lima)
- Entrance to the mountain of Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Peak
What to bring
-
What you need to bring:
Travel Essentials
- Original Passport and copies
- Flight tickets and travel documents
- Travel insurance information
- Credit/debit cards and some cash (Peruvian soles and USD)
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable clothes for daytime (t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts)
- Warm layers for high-altitude destinations (fleece or sweater, thermal underwear)
- Waterproof/windproof jacket or poncho
- Comfortable pants for trekking/hiking
- Shorts or light pants for lower-altitude areas like Lima or Ica
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Swimwear (for hot springs in Chivay or hotel pools)
- Sleepwear
- Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and museums
- Sturdy shoes for Rainbow Mountain, Colca Canyon, and Machu Picchu
- Sandals or flip-flops for hotel or relaxing
Accessories
- Small daypack/backpack for daily excursions
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel towel (optional, some hotels provide them)
- Camera, smartphone, and chargers
Health & Hygiene
- Sunscreen (high SPF) and lip balm
- Mosquito repellent (especially for Machupicchu)
- Personal medications and first-aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, altitude sickness medication)
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant)
Altitude Preparation
- Diamox (consult your doctor) or other remedies for altitude sickness
- Energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, granola bars)
- Hydration tablets or electrolyte powder
Optional Items
- Travel pillow for overnight bus rides
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag for Lake Titicaca and desert activities
- Lightweight scarf or buff for dust protection in desert areas
Tips:
- Pack light but in layers; temperatures can vary from warm coastal areas to freezing highlands.
- Avoid cotton for high-altitude trekking—it doesn’t keep you warm when wet.
- Always have a small daypack with essentials during excursions.
before you go
When is the best time to visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru is between the months of May and September (Peru’s winter). This is the dry season in the Andes Mountains, therefore it’s the best time to see the most popular sites like Machu Picchu, Cusco and the Inca Trail. The best time to visit coastal Lima is the opposite, between December and April (Peru’s summer). During the summer months you can enjoy Lima’s warm sunshine and avoid the chilly mist and clouds of winter.
How much time do I need to visit Peru
You can see the top sites of Peru in as little as four days, while you can get the full breadth of the country in two weeks. The majority of visitors spend somewhere in between — around a week to 10 days depending on what destinations they wish to see. Travelers focused on the beloved Andean sites of Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley and Cusco need a week or so. Travelers wanting to see the coast, mountains and rainforest should plan 10-11 days. Additional destinations like Lake Titicaca, Arequipa and Nazca Lines each add another 2-4 days.
Do I need a visa?
Visitors from the United States, Canada, European Union, Australia, New Zealand and select other countries do not need a tourist visa to visit Peru. Peruvian Immigrations will mark your passport upon arrival to Peru with how many days you are permitted to stay, typically 90 days. Remember that your passport must be valid for more than six months after your departure date. For specific information about additional countries’ visa requirements, visit VisaHQ.
What vaccinations should I get??
In general, all travelers should have their routine vaccinations up-to-date, plus Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines (especially those staying in rural areas). Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for those visiting the Amazon rainforest. For more information, visit the CDC Peru website and speak with your doctor for information about vaccination recommendations and requirements when traveling to Peru.!!
What language is spoken in Peru
The primary language spoken throughout Peru is Spanish. Other official languages of Peru are the indigenous languages of Quechua and Aymara, which you will hear more in rural areas. English is not widely spoken in Peru, though you can get by with no problem with the help of guides, hotel personnel and language translation apps. It is helpful to learn some basic Spanish before your trip if possible as well.
Is Peru safe?
Yes, Peru is a safe tourist destination. Violent crime is no more common in Peru than any other tourist destination in the world. Of course, like anywhere, you should exercise caution to avoid petty crime like robbery by keeping your valuables secure and avoiding dark, non-touristy places at night. Be aware of your surroundings, know your route and keep your personal items secure and you will be fine.
Is tap water safe to drink?
In Peru, the tap water is not safe to drink. For drinking water, stick to bottled water. We recommend brands like San Mateo and San Luis, which can be found at any corner bodega or supermarket. Tap water boiled vigorously for a minute or more is also safe for hot beverages, although those with a sensitive stomach should boil bottled water instead. The tap water is fine for brushing your teeth, just avoid swallowing it.
What is the best mode of transportation
Our Peru packages include all your secure transfers and transport with specific pickup locations for your ease and convenience. For any independent exploring throughout the city, we recommend simply booking a secure taxi through your hotel. Or, you can use a rideshare app like Uber or Cabify. We recommend apps like Uber over hailing a street taxi, so that you can confirm your driver/vehicle and easily visualize your route. The street bus system can be a bit tricky to navigate, but Lima’s Metropolitano offers easy rides to the historic center.
What kind of adapter/converter do I need for my electronics?
Peru uses a 220 volt, 60 cycle current while the US uses a 120 volt supply. Luckily, most laptops, cameras and mobile phones can accept dual voltage (110V/220V) , but be sure to confirm before plugging in. Other electronics, like hair straighteners, are likely 110V so you will need a converter for those. Conveniently, the outlets in Peru are often the two-pronged flat type like in the US, especially at popular hotels, but in some locations you will find the two or three prong circular kind. It’s a good idea to bring both a converter and adapter just in case. However, the converter can be skipped if you are sure your electronics are dual voltage
Can I use the ATMs?
Yes, and they are plentiful in the major cities. You can step into any BCP, Scotiabank, Interbank, BBVA Continental or others and use their ATM with your debit card for a $3-$6 fee. The machines at these banks all have options in English. Opt to use an ATM located inside a bank rather than on the street for higher security.
Is Lima worth visiting?
Lima is a very interesting metro area with many things to see. There is a historic central area, a beautiful coastline with 2+ miles of continuous parks, an artsy bohemian district and a world-renowned culinary scene. You can stay at a comfortable hotel in the popular Miraflores, San Isidro or Barranco districts and enjoy day tours or wander around at your leisure sampling the amazing food and wandering into the shops. Keep in mind that between the months of June and October it is extremely cloudy and often misty in Lima, the rest of the year is more moderate and sunny.
Your Stay Options
Top Pick Accommodations
The right hotel, in the right place, with the right service.
The list below shows our recommended hotels that our travel experts have selected for each destination to make your vacation the best experience featuring superior service, good location, and all facilities necessary for a comfortable stay.
We can book any hotel for you, even if it is not on our list. Please just contact our travel experts for more information.