Home / South America /
Peru
Peru is a land of breathtaking contrasts, where ancient history meets dramatic landscapes and diverse cultures. From the towering Andes Mountains to the lush Amazon rainforest, the country offers a range of experiences that captivate both the adventurous and the curious. Whether you’re fascinated by the mysteries of the Inca civilization or drawn to the wild beauty of its national parks, this travel guide to Peru will inspire your journey.
Discover Peru
The rich culture of Peru is reflected not only in its archaeological treasures but also in its vibrant cities and local traditions. Stroll through Lima, the capital city, where colonial architecture blends seamlessly with modern art galleries, museums, and gourmet dining. Journey to Cusco, the historic gateway to Machu Picchu, where ancient Inca heritage lives on in daily customs and festivals. Beyond the cities, Peru invites you to explore the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, and the untouched wilderness of the Amazon rainforest.
Best things to see and do in Peru
- Machu Picchu: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic Inca citadel is a must-see for every traveller.
- Cusco: A UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with history, culture, and stunning architecture.
- Lima: A cosmopolitan city known for its culinary scene, coastal views, and cultural landmarks.
- Lake Titicaca: The world’s highest navigable lake, home to the Uros floating islands.
- Amazon Rainforest: Discover Peru’s incredible biodiversity with eco-tours and wildlife spotting.
- Andes Mountains: Perfect for trekking, adventure sports, and breathtaking views of the highlands.
- Arequipa & Colca Canyon: Explore Peru’s “White City” and witness one of the world’s deepest canyons.
Travel tips for visiting Peru
- Altitude preparation: Many destinations, including Cusco and Machu Picchu, are at high altitudes. Allow time to acclimatise.
- Best time to visit: The dry season (May to September) is ideal for trekking and sightseeing, though popular sites are busier.
- Currency: The Peruvian Sol (PEN) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in cities.
- Transportation: Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances; buses are an affordable option for intercity travel.
- Local cuisine: Don’t miss traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa. Peru is a global foodie destination.
Why choose Peru
Choosing Peru means embarking on a journey where ancient wonders, natural beauty, and vibrant culture come together. From the world-famous ruins of Machu Picchu to the thriving food scene in Lima, from highland traditions in Cusco to wildlife-rich adventures in the Amazon, Peru offers an experience that appeals to history lovers, adventurers, and food enthusiasts alike. With its unique blend of heritage, landscapes, and warm hospitality, Peru is not just a destination—it’s an unforgettable experience.
Know before you go
CAPITAL: Lima
LANGUAGE: Spanish, Quechua & Aymara
COUNTRY CODE: PE
ELECTRICITY: 240V, 60Hz
To power any electrical item an international adapter or a three pin plug is required
POPULATION: 32.9 million
CURRENCY: Nuevo Sol
DIALLING CODE: +51
TIME ZONE: GMT/UTC -5
Peru Climate
Peru’s climate varies significantly across its diverse geography, with coastal, highland, and rainforest regions each experiencing distinct weather patterns. The coastal areas, such as Lima, enjoy a mild desert climate, with temperatures averaging between 60°F (15°C) in winter and 80°F (27°C) in summer.
In contrast, the Andean highlands, including Cusco, have a temperate climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) and dropping to around 30°F (-1°C) at night, particularly during the dry season from May to September.
The Amazon rainforest experiences a hot, humid climate, with temperatures often exceeding 80°F (27°C) year-round and heavy rainfall from November to March. The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable and ideal for trekking and exploring attractions like Machu Picchu.
Safety advice for Peru
Most visits to Peru are trouble-free. However, street crime, including muggings and thefts, is a significant problem in Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and other major cities. Be vigilant in public places and avoid walking alone in quiet areas or at night.
There have been several recent thefts at gunpoint affecting foreign nationals, in tourist areas of Miraflores and Barranco. These have taken place both during the day and at night. Don’t attempt to resist attackers or take any action that puts you at greater risk.
There have been several cases of rape, mostly in the Cusco and Arequipa areas. Be alert to the use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs. Buy your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times. Criminals have targeted tourists and local people in the San Blas neighbourhood in Cusco including incidents of violent robberies and rapes.
Peru has been reported as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. If you are a female traveller, take extra precautions when visiting the country. See Zika virus for more information. Yellow fever is endemic in certain areas.
Terrorist attacks in Peru can’t be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners.
Information provided by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office www.fco.gov.uk 
Recent Articles
Top attractions in Peru
Powered by GetYourGuide
Peru in depth
Plan your trip
Make planning your next adventure a breeze! Book with one of our partners for easy, stress-free organising and an unforgettable experience!
Travel Insurance
in partnership with SafetyWing
Protect yourself: Get comprehensive travel medical insurance today!
Find Hotels
in partnership with Booking.com
Find your next hotel stay. Search low prices on hotels, and much more…
Find Hostels
in partnership with Hostelworld
Book a bed from over 36,000 properties across 178 countries.
Find Tours
in partnership with G Adventures
Never be bored again! Search 1000s of tours and activities from around the world.
Car Hire
in partnership with Rentcars.com
Compare the best car rental deals from all major car hire companies.
Just a heads up: all links here are affiliate links, which means they’ll take you to our partner websites. If you make a purchase through them, anothertravel.com earns a small commission that helps keep the site running. Thanks for your support!