Peru Travel Essentials

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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 you'll want to book far in advance. Try May instead—the rains have let up, and crowds are still manageable. Heading to the Amazon? Waterways are most navigable from September-November, and wildlife spotting is at its best. And you'll want to visit the coast between January-March.

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 to join the many travelers that flock to the area from June to August, but almost-as-great conditions can still be had in September and October, with considerably fewer crowds. Learn more about Machu Picchu's weather, crowds, and annual events below.

View of Machu Picchu
Map of Top 10 Places to Visit in Peru
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 reflected in the stunning places and range of activities you can enjoy. Here's our list of the top 10 Peru highlights to check consider adding to your itinerary.

Spectacular mountain scenery in the Sacred Valley © Kiki Deere
Map of Best Activities in Peru
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 on offer. Home to the world's longest continental mountain range, Peru also possesses the Amazon jungle and a long Pacific coastline, meaning adrenaline junkies will be able to find their next fix at every corner. This list highlights the best activities in Peru.

Hiking up Rainbow Mountain near Cusco, Peru
Packing for Your Peru Trip: The Only Packing List You Need

Peru is a land of extremes. You'll need layers of clothing for a daytime hike, a swimsuit at the beach, and a thick alpaca blanket on a cold night up in the Andes. Whatever your travel plans, here's a comprehensive list that will have you packing your bags like a pro.

Tourist trekking in Cotahuasi Canyon
Getting Off the Beaten Path in Peru

Thousands of tourists flock to Peru each year to visit the famed ruins of Machu Picchu. But while the masses are headed toward this archaeological wonder, many sites of great interest pass the days in relative obscurity. There are deep canyons, high-altitude lakes and spectacular rail journeys – plenty for those wanting to get off the beaten path. Here are some suggestions to escape the crowds.

The ruins of Kuélap are a great destination that receives few visitors
Map of Top 7 Places in Peru That Most Travelers Miss (But Shouldn't)
Top 7 Places in Peru That Most Travelers Miss (But Shouldn't)

In a place like Peru, there's so much to see and do that many travelers often miss the truly amazing and authentic experiences. With journeys to these off-the-beaten-path destinations, you have the chance to connect more closely with the people, places, history and culture that make Peru special. Trek to forgotten ruins, explore a witch's market and come closer to the living heart of Peru in tiny villages and enchanted valleys.

Explore Machu Picchu in a Unique way w/ kimkim specialist insights
How kimkim Trips Work in Peru

Peru is a fascinating and complex country, full of ancient ruins and monuments, pulsing cities, and natural wonders—not to mention warm and welcoming people eager to share their culture. Here’s some insight into how kimkim can organize your ideal trip to Peru, from start to finish.

Cusco's Old Town
Planning Your Trip to Peru

There's more to Peru than Machu Picchu—world-class restaurants, diverse wildlife, and landscapes ranging from Amazonian rainforest to the snow-capped Andes await. Here's everything you need to know when planning your visit.

Hiking in the Peruvian Andes can be done solo or with a guide
Options for Touring Peru

Travelers love Peru for its incredible food scene, stunning landscapes, and mesmerizing ruins of ancient civilizations. It's a place that's well-prepared for tourists, but as the third-largest country in South America, Peru is also vast in size. Read on for tips as you plan your adventure.