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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
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 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.

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...

See how many parrots you can count at Parrot Clay Lick
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,...

The vast expanse of the Sacred Valley
Map of 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries

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
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...

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...

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
(23)
· 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
(10)
· 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...
Puerto Maldonado
Tambopata Research Center
4.8
(5)
· Comfort
Tambopata Research Center is a lodge within the Tambopata National Reserve in Madre de Dios, Peru, making it one of the most remote lodges in South America. The lodge is situated in front of the Bahuaja Sonene National Park and is surrounded by the best wildlife the Peruvian Amazon jungle has to...

Best Experiences in Peru

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
The Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Cusco
Cusco City Tour
5.0
(16)
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...
Peruvian ceviche
Lima
Lima Food Tour
5.0
(12)
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...
Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu Tour
4.9
(20)
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...

Our Latest Peru Content

 Check off the Inca Trek on your life to-do list
Map of Lima, Cusco & the Inca Trek: Best Itinerary Ideas
Lima, Cusco & the Inca Trek: Best Itinerary Ideas

Seven to 10 days is a great length for a Peru trip with stops in Lima, Cusco, and the Inca Trek. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include the Sacred Valley and Puno. Keep reading for more inspiring itineraries that include Lima, Cusco, and the Inca Trek.

Choose between a range of guided activities in the Amazon
Map of The Peruvian Amazon: Best Itinerary Ideas
The Peruvian Amazon: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Peru typically plan a trip for nine to 12 days when combining the Amazon with Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. For travelers wanting to visit the Amazon exclusively, plan four to five days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in three days for travelers with limited time. Read on for the best itineraries, including the Amazon and beyond.

Wander around Machu Picchu at your own pace
Map of Lima, the Amazon, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley: Best Itinerary Ideas
Lima, the Amazon, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley: Best Itinerary Ideas

Fourteen to 15 days is a great length for a Peru trip, with stops in Lima, the Amazon, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. It's also possible to hit the highlights in 11 to 13 days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country. Keep reading for more inspiring Lima, the Amazon, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley itineraries.

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
View article
Map 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
View article
Map 10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Peru
Travel specialist Johanna Fabian
active 3 hours 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 Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 1 min 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 Anne Godoy
active 34 mins ago

Anne Godoy

I fell in love with Peru with its landscapes, culture, food, and people! Not only for what I learned in college but because of what I had seen. So that passion and love drive me every day to...

read more...
Travel specialist Kristy Tizon
active 13 hours 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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Why travelers love kimkim

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Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Trip Reviews for Peru

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

The trip was absolutely amazing.
Peru | Jan 18 - Jan 25, 2024

M
Meravsegev S.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 02, 2024
The trip was absolutely amazing. Kristy is a true professional and helped to customize the trip to accommodate all our family requests. Sonia, our private tour guide was phenomenal, very knowledgeable and adjusted our tours as needed. Kristy checked on us throughout the 9 days trip. Her restaurant recommendations were very helpful and very good! Highly recommended to use her services . Read more

The trip was absolutely amazing. Kristy is a true professional and helped to customize the trip to accommodate all our family requests. Sonia, our private tour guide was phenomenal, very knowledgeable and adjusted our tours as needed.

Kristy checked on us throughout the 9 days trip. Her restaurant recommendations were very helpful and very good!

Highly recommended to use her services .

Hotel Reviews
Palacio del Inka Cusco
Cusco
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
AC Hotel by Marriott Lima Miraflores
Lima
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tambo del Inka Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
Urubamba
Authenticity & Character
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Kristy Tizon
Kristy
Kristy Tizon
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Mar 05, 2024

Hi Merav,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! I am happy I was able to help with your trip and that you had a wonderful time. I hope to stay in touch for any future travels to South America!

Take care!

Kristy

The Soul of Peru with PeruvianSoul
Peru | Feb 17 - Feb 24, 2024

KELLIE
KELLIE S.
Ann Arbor, MI | Reviewed on Feb 27, 2024
Our journey with PeruvianSoul through the heart of Peru's culinary and cultural delights was an absolute delight. From the vibrant streets of Lima to the serene landscapes of the Sacred Valley, every moment was filled with unforgettable experiences. Our adventure began with a walking food tour through the charming streets of Barranco. Led by the knowledgeable Marcus, we explored hidden culinary gems while soaking in the artistic ambiance of the area. The ceviche we sampled was a... Read more

Our journey with PeruvianSoul through the heart of Peru's culinary and cultural delights was an absolute delight. From the vibrant streets of Lima to the serene landscapes of the Sacred Valley, every moment was filled with unforgettable experiences.

Our adventure began with a walking food tour through the charming streets of Barranco. Led by the knowledgeable Marcus, we explored hidden culinary gems while soaking in the artistic ambiance of the area. The ceviche we sampled was a revelation, showcasing Peru's culinary prowess and leaving us craving more.

Arriving in the Sacred Valley, we were treated to a picturesque lunch on the shores of Piuray Lagoon, a moment that quickly became a favorite for Jim. The stunning scenery paired perfectly with the delicious cuisine, setting the tone for the rest of our journey.

Exploring the Moray Terraces, Maras Salt Ponds, and Ollantaytambo provided fascinating insights into the region's rich history and natural wonders. However, it was our visit to the Amaru community that left the most lasting impression. Welcomed with open arms by Pedro and his family, we experienced genuine hospitality as we learned about their traditions and sampled local delicacies.

Of course, no visit to Peru would be complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring wonder of Machu Picchu. The ancient ruins left us spellbound, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Inca civilization.

Throughout our journey, we were fortunate to have the expertise of Kevin, our skilled driver, and Miguel, our passionate guide. Kevin navigated the winding roads with ease, while Miguel's wealth of knowledge and infectious enthusiasm brought each destination to life. His attention to detail ensured that every aspect of our trip was seamless, leaving us feeling cared for and well-informed.

The personalized touches from the PeruvianSoul team truly set our experience apart. From remembering special occasions like my birthday to surprising us with thoughtful treats, their genuine care and attention to detail were evident at every turn.

In conclusion, our adventure with PeruvianSoul surpassed all expectations, leaving us with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the soul of Peru. Thank you to the entire team for an unforgettable journey. We cannot wait to return and explore more of this incredible country.

Local specialist: Anne Godoy
Anne
Anne Godoy
Local specialist in Lima | Replied on Feb 29, 2024

Hello Kellie & Jim,
We want to thank you for taking the time to write this wonderful review. Each member of our team is thrilled to know you enjoyed your journey with us. Overall, we're glad Kevin and Miguel made your trip seamless, and our personalized touches added to the magic. Thank you for letting us be part of your adventure, and we can't wait to welcome you back to explore more of Peru's incredible soul! Safe travels!

Oscar in Cusco was great. The other guides we...
Peru | Jan 18 - Jan 29, 2024

Gary
Gary Z.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Feb 05, 2024

Oscar in Cusco was great. The other guides were good and the trip was great, basically hitting all the spots we wanted in a short period of time!

Local specialist: Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
Liz Karen
Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
Local specialist in Cusco | Replied on Feb 14, 2024

Hi Gary,
Thank you very much! ☺
I'm sharing your review with our team. They'll be happy to read it.
Take care!
Liz.