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Introducing Peru

Peru is a country steeped in culture and natural beauty. From the lush Amazon Jungle to the sacred peaks of the Andes, down whitewater rivers that carve their way toward the South Pacific, Peru has endless regions and highlights to explore. 

Where should I go?
Most travelers come to Peru to see Machu Picchu, the iconic ruins perched high above the Urubamba River, yet this is just a small glimpse into what Peru has to offer. One could spend over a week exploring the other ruins of the Sacred Valley, a corridor of villages, mountain peaks, and hiking routes above the Urubamba River. Travelers can also experience the Peruvian Amazon along the border of Brazil, which gives birth to many of the mighty tributaries of the Amazon River, full of wildlife, indigenous cultures, and pristine wilderness. The north of Peru, still undiscovered by mainstream tourism, rewards any traveler who ventures off the beaten path with untouched ruins and vistas. Then down along Peru's West Coast, past beautiful beaches with year-round surfing, you'll arrive at the mysterious Nasca lines, immense geoglyphs carved into the desert sand. Learn more

When is the best time to visit? 
Every region in Peru is a bit different. May is one of the best months to visit the Sacred Valley - it marks the end of the rainy season, and travelers can beat the crowds that arrive from June to August. September to November are the best months for wildlife viewing in the Amazon, and November offers some of the best surfing along the Peruvian coast. Learn more

Things to do in Peru
Peru is a great destination for outdoor activities as well as cultural exploration. Trekking, rafting, and biking are all popular activities. The Sacred Valley offers some of the best outdoor activity options in Peru - you can learn more here. If you're looking for a more relaxed trip focused on culture and history, get inspired by these itinerary ideas.

Getting around in Peru
Distances in Peru are very large, so domestic flights (for example from Lima to Cusco to reach Machu Picchu) are typically part of itineraries in Peru. Learn more

How many days do you need to visit Peru? 
No matter how much time you have in Peru, whether it's just a few days or a few weeks, this country can offer some unforgettable experiences. With just five days, it's possible to visit the national highlights of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. With a week or more the experiences just get better, allowing you time for historic cities and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Peru Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Machu Picchu
Map of Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you’re looking for the best way to hike the Inca Trail, this classic route offers a unique approach which avoids the main crowds, and follows the ideal schedule for timing your visit to Machu Picchu.

Salkantay peak as seen during the Salkantay trek
Map of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay trek is one of Peru’s best alternatives to the Inca Trail. Trek over a beautiful mountain pass at the foot of Mt. Salkantay before stopping at a local organic coffee plantation, followed by a visit to the Llactapata ruins. Finally, get up early the last day to catch sunrise at the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu
Map of Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Adventure - 6 Days
Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Adventure - 6 Days

Explore the essential highlights of Peru's Sacred Valley, including visits to Cusco and Machu Picchu. Then, journey through a land of wild desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and herds of alpacas to arrive at your ultimate destination: the rainbow-painted slopes of Mount Vinicunca hidden deep in the Andes.

Uros floating island on Lake Titicaca
Map of Essential Peru - 14 Days
Essential Peru - 14 Days

From the Nazca Lines to Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and Machu Picchu, this 14-day itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the Nazca Lines - some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs, then spend some time exploring the metropolitan city of Lima before heading out to explore the colonial city of Arequipa. Next, explore Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, then head out to Lake Titicaca - a place rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. Finally, head to the Inca capital of Cusco and explore colorful textile markets and small towns of the Sacred Valley, and hike the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Looking down on the city of Cusco
Map of Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour - 7 Days
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour - 7 Days

Explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu on this epic one week adventure. While in the Sacred Valley, you'll get to choose from a selection of great adventures, including mountain biking, horseback riding, or zip-lining. 

Caravan in Cordiliera Huayhuash
Map of Cordillera Huayhuash - 9 Days
Cordillera Huayhuash - 9 Days

Explore the Cordillera Huayhuash on this 9-day adventure through one of the most impressive regions of the Peruvian Andes. This is one of the lesser-known and uncrowded treks due to the remote location of this beautiful mountain range.

Make the Most of Your Time in Peru

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Checkout the Uros Floating Islands and visit Puno on Lake Titicaca
How Many Days to Spend in Peru

No matter how much time you have in Peru, whether it's just a few days or a few weeks, this country can offer some unforgettable experiences. With just three or four days and...

Explore famed Machu Picchu on all but four of the following one-week itineraries
Map of 1 Week in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In seven days, it's easy to combine Machu Picchu with day trips within the Sacred Valley or with a visit to another region like the Amazon Rainforest or Lake Titicaca. Trekkers...

Famous view of the Lost City of Kuélap, near Chachapoyas, Peru
Map of 10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Peru is an excellent amount of time to enjoy a well-rounded introduction to the country's highlights on a tour featuring Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon,...

See how many parrots you can count at Parrot Clay Lick on an adventure into the Amazon
Map of 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A two-week visit to Peru allows travelers to comfortably combine Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley with one of the country's more remote regions. Enjoy the culture and history...

Peru Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Ruins at Ollantaytambo in Peru's Sacred Valley
Best Time of Year to Visit Peru

Each region of Peru has its own weather patterns and trip-planning considerations. The busy season for Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley runs from June-August, and...

Agricultural terraces surrounding the ruins
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu and its surrounds offer a variety of seasonal outdoor activities and phenomenal festivals throughout the year. For ideal weather (bright, dry and cool), you'll want...

View of Machu Picchu
Top 10 Places to Visit in Peru

From ancient Inca ruins to the mysterious Nazca Lines, snow-capped peaks to dense Amazonian jungle: Peru is one of the world's most diverse destinations. That diversity is also...

Spectacular mountain scenery in the Sacred Valley © Kiki Deere
Best Activities in Peru

Peru’s spectacularly varied landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities and sports: trekking, rafting and mountain biking are just a handful of the activities...

Peru Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Machu Picchu - the perfect set
5 Movies to Watch Before Your Trip to Peru

Grab some popcorn! Your adventures in Peru will be even more fulfilling if you take the time to watch a film or two before you begin the trip. And these comedies, biopics, and...

Train at Abra la Raya on the Cusco to Puno Line
Peru's Best Train Rides

All aboard! Trains are a practical solution for traveling in Peru: they transport travelers between key destinations around the country, and they're also a wonderful way to take...

Peru Destination Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country
Estancia El Chillo, Amazonas Region
Northern Peru: Everything You Need To Know

While the majority of travelers head straight for Machu Picchu in southern Peru, the North remains a hidden gem for those willing to venture off-the-beaten-path. You'll have...

Cusco, historic capital of the Inca Empire, by night
24 Hours in Cusco

Cusco has been a bastion of Peruvian culture since its founding in the 12th century. Today, it's a sophisticated city filled with fabulous museums, galleries, restaurants, and...

Paragliding over the plush neighborhood of Miraflores in Lima
24 Hours in Lima

Lima offers history, world-class museums, an unbeatable foodie scene, and the second-largest cityscape in South America. Not sure where to start? To the rescue: a foolproof plan...

Peru Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Cusco
Antigua Casona San Blas
5.0
(33)
· Comfort
Located in Cusco's artisan neighborhood of San Blas, Antigua Casona San Blas offers a peaceful stay within a five-minute walk from the city center. San Blas is Cusco's oldest, continuously lived-in neighborhood, where you can find numerous artisan galleries, quaint coffee shops, and delicious...
Tambopata
Refugio Amazonas Lodge
4.9
(15)
· Mid-range
Refugio Amazonas is a rustic retreat set deep within the rainforest, surrounded by the beauty of the Tambopata National Reserve. This secluded 32-bedroom jungle lodge is about two hours from the Puerto Maldonado Airport in southeastern Peru. You can easily explore nearby attractions such as Lago...
Lima
Pullman Lima Miraflores
4.9
(8)
· Comfort
Located in Lima's vibrant Miraflores district, Pullman Lima Miraflores offers a prime location for exploring the city's key sites. Just a short stroll from the iconic Malecón de la Costa Verde and Larcomar Shopping Mall, you'll also be within easy reach of the Barranco District, Kennedy Park,...

Best Experiences in Peru

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu Tour
4.9
(27)
6 hours
·
Private
The ruins of the 15th century Incan citadel of Machu Picchu (which translates to "old mountain") were largely hidden to the outside world until the early 20th century. Today over a million visitors flock to this UNESCO World Heritage Site each year. They come to see a masterpiece of ancient...
Peruvian ceviche
Lima
Lima Food Tour
4.9
(18)
5 hours
·
Small group
One of the best ways to discover Peru's capital city of Lima is through its food. With an eclectic combination of indigenous, African, Asian, and European culinary influences, Lima is one of the world's most impressive gastronomic and cultural centers. This food tour begins early in Lima's...
The Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Cusco
Cusco City Tour
4.9
(19)
5 hours
·
Private
Cusco isn't just an impressive Spanish-colonial city in Peru's southern highlands. It's also the historic capital of the Inca empire. Today's tour begins at the indoor San Pedro Market, in the heart of the colonial center. This is as authentic a Peruvian experience as it gets, since locals come...

Our Latest Peru Content

Spend the day exploring Lake Titicaca, stopping at the isolated Taquile Island
Map of Best of Peru & Bolivia with Inca Trail Trek: From the Amazon to the Andes - 16 Days
Best of Peru & Bolivia with Inca Trail Trek: From the Amazon to the Andes - 16 Days

Discover the wonders of Peru and Bolivia in 16 incredible days! Begin with free time in Lima, then head to Puerto Maldonado for Amazon jungle adventures, including hiking, canoeing, and canopy walks. Explore Inca ruins in Cusco and the lush Sacred Valley before trekking the four-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Savor Arequipa's culinary delights, marvel at Andean condors in Colca Canyon, and cruise Lake Titicaca's islands. Then, end your journey at the ancient site of Tiwanaku and vibrant La Paz in Bolivia.

Combine adventure, culture, and cuisine on this 12-day luxury tour that finishes in Arequipa
Map of Luxury Food & Adventure Tour in Peru - 12 Days
Luxury Food & Adventure Tour in Peru - 12 Days

This 12-day Peru getaway is about luxury, adventure, and cuisine. Start by sampling Lima's street food and gourmet dishes, then begin a luxury three-night cruise on the Amazon River. From there, catch sunsets from the deck and explore the smaller offshoots to see river dolphins and monkeys. Next, fly to Cusco for a traditional lunch in the Sacred Valley and a scenic train to the famous Machu Picchu. End your trip in Arequipa, the "White City," for regional specialties and beautiful architecture.

Take a  luxury train to Machu Picchu during this eight-day tour of Peru (photo courtesy of Belmond Hiram Bingham)
Map of Luxury Peru Adventure: Salkantay Trek & Hiram Bingham Train - 8 Days
Luxury Peru Adventure: Salkantay Trek & Hiram Bingham Train - 8 Days

Discover Peru with a side of luxury on this eight-day tour that kicks off in Cusco with a seven-course gourmet dinner. Spend a day touring the Sacred Valley's llama sanctuaries, artisan markets, and Inca ruins, then gear up for a three-day trek along the Salkantay Trail, passing glacial lakes, snowy peaks, and hot springs. End your trip on the opulent Belmond Hiram Bingham train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, where you'll enjoy a private tour of Peru's most famous landmark.

Peru Travel Videos

Peru Travel Specialist Interview - Nicole
Peru Travel Specialist Interview - Clara
Exploring the Sacred Valley

Peru Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
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Map 10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Peru
Travel specialist Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 15 hours ago

Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Peruvian delicious food, unique culture, and fascinating history are part of me! And as a good cusqueñian, I am very proud of my culture and heritage. I have lived and worked in the USA and made...

read more...
Travel specialist Johanna Fabian
active 19 mins ago

Johanna Fabian

I enjoy slow travel, ideally being in one country for a month where I can really get to know the local people, their way of life and of course their food! I am Peruvian-American and have traveled...

read more...
Travel specialist Anne Godoy
active 2 days ago

Anne Godoy

I fell in love with Peru's landscapes, culture, food, and people—not only because of what I learned in college but also because of what I had seen. That passion and love drive me every day to...

read more...
Travel specialist Kristy Tizon
active 47 mins ago

Kristy Tizon

Kristy, a Peruvian-American originally from Los Angeles but now based in Lima, Peru, has a deep passion for travel. She founded Miski Travels, a travel agency that offers customized trips to...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Peru

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

The trip was truly incredible and beyond our ...
Peru | Sep 7 - Sep 25, 2024

Mark
Mark D.
Kansas City, MO | Reviewed on Nov 01, 2024
The trip was truly incredible and beyond our expectations, to be honest. We spent roughly 13 days traveling between Lima, the Amazon, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Next, we headed to Argentina for 6 days where we fell in love with Buenos Aires during our time there and at a Gaucho ranch in addition to a stunning 2 days at Iguazu Falls where we even wnet to Brazil for the day! Kristy from Kim Kim was a fantastic help throughout the booking and trip process; her knowledge was... Read more

The trip was truly incredible and beyond our expectations, to be honest. We spent roughly 13 days traveling between Lima, the Amazon, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Next, we headed to Argentina for 6 days where we fell in love with Buenos Aires during our time there and at a Gaucho ranch in addition to a stunning 2 days at Iguazu Falls where we even wnet to Brazil for the day!

Kristy from Kim Kim was a fantastic help throughout the booking and trip process; her knowledge was key to ensuring the trip exactly met our expectations, and it didn't disappoint. She was even available throughout the trip for any issues or questions we had and provided some brilliant insider knowledge on food, trips, and recommendations she knew we would like!

All the elements worked seamlessly from travel to flights and hotels, so we didn’t have to worry or think about anything, to be honest—it was very slick. Finally, a special thank you to our guides, with whom we spent some unforgettable times: Henry in the Amazon, Frank in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Feddy at Iguazu Falls, and Rosa in Buenos Aires. All of you really made the trip special and one we will never forget!

Planning is now underway for a return to South America next year! :)

Hotel Reviews
El Mapi by Inkaterra
Lima

Right in the center of town, great location, and just 1 minute from the train station. It’s okay for a night with a view if you’re there to see Machu Picchu, but the rooms could use some better ventilation plus quite noisy. The staff were helpful, and oxygen is available quickly if the altitude gets to you.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel
Puerto Iguazú

Jungle hotel where you are right in it, with bouncing bridges that connect the buildings (fun)! There’s a great adults' pool overlooking the river (perfect for a few sundowners). We found it to be the perfect laid-back hotel for exploring Iguazu.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pullman Lima Miraflores
Miraflores, Lima

Perfect city hotel right on the Pacific Ocean!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palacio del Inka Cusco
Cusco

Stunning hotel in the center of Cusco just beautiful! Make sure you look out for the baby alpaca in the courtyard; he loves carrots! :) We loved the spa and water therapy as well; it’s a must after a long day or if you need some R&R.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica
Puerto Maldonado

What a 3 days in the Amazon! Just incredible. Our guide Henry was a fountain of knowledge throughout. What a location, too! The food was great, and the stunning main house where you eat is beautiful. The only thing needed was some pillows for the chairs at the tables; it would make dining much more comfortable. ;)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
All were brilliant, but special thanks to our guide Henry. His passion, knowledge, and jokes really made the excursions and adventures even more unique.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo

Beautiful! We could have stayed here for weeks; it was very peaceful in beautiful surroundings. The food and spa next to the river were also just perfect.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Be Jardin Escondido by Coppola
Buenos Aires

What a place! The staff and the hotel were 10/10 in every way. It really is a beautiful small boutique hotel (with 4 rooms) in a brilliant Buenos Aires neighborhood.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Such a big thank you, as everyone was so nice and really made the stay very special. :)
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Lima Food Tour - (PM Tour)
Lima Food Tour - (PM Tour)
Peru
Quality of Experience
Food
v v tasty and fantatsic to go to 4 different places and explore the city!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
really good
Local specialist: Kristy Tizon

Great trip. Highlights included the food to...
Peru | Oct 12 - Oct 25, 2024

Terry
Terry M.
Murfreesboro, TN | Reviewed on Nov 01, 2024
Great trip. Highlights included the food tour with Patricia, the Machu Pichu tour with Fisher, and the Tour of lake Titikaka with Jose was the best!
Too many highlights to mention but KimKim did a fabulous job organizing for us. Thank you!!!!!
Read more

Great trip. Highlights included the food tour with Patricia, the Machu Pichu tour with Fisher, and the Tour of lake Titikaka with Jose was the best!
Too many highlights to mention but KimKim did a fabulous job organizing for us. Thank you!!!!!

Hotel Review
El Albergue Ollantaytambo Boutique Hotel
Cusco

Wonderful hotel, Fabulous restaurant at the hotel, and Luis and the front desk was soooo helpful! Thank you! Terry

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Activity Review
Lima Food Tour
Lima Food Tour
Peru

Patricia was fabulous!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Johanna Fabian

Joanna and the KimKim team did a great job co...
Peru | Oct 12 - Oct 25, 2024

Laura
Laura K.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Oct 29, 2024

Joanna and the KimKim team did a great job coordinating our trip. The airport/train/hotel transfers and handoffs were seamless and made our experience stress free.

Local specialist: Johanna Fabian
Johanna
Johanna Fabian
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Oct 30, 2024

Glad to hear you had a great time in Peru Laura! We look forward to helping you with your future South America travels.

Johanna