Planning a trip to Peru? This Peru travel guide from Wonders of Peru Expeditions covers everything you need to know — from must-visit destinations and cultural highlights to practical travel tips from our local expert guides based in Cusco.
Whether you’re trekking to Machu Picchu, exploring the Sacred Valley, or immersing yourself in Cusco’s vibrant culture, this guide will help you plan the perfect Peru adventure.
Top Destinations in Our Peru Travel Guide
Machu Picchu
No Peru travel guide is complete without Machu Picchu. This iconic Inca citadel perched high in the Andes is one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological sites. Visit on a private full-day tour or combine it with a multi-day trek like the classic Inca Trail.
Cusco
The ancient Inca capital is a must on any Peru itinerary. Explore colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and world-class restaurants. Our Cusco city walking tour is the perfect introduction to this historic city.
The Sacred Valley
Stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is home to ancient ruins, traditional Andean villages, and stunning landscapes. Don’t miss Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and the Maras salt mines.
Rainbow Mountain
One of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders, Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) features dramatic striped layers of color at over 5,000 meters elevation. A challenging but rewarding day hike.
Lake Humantay
This turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks is one of Peru’s most photographed spots. Our Humantay Lake full-day tour departs from Cusco daily.
Best Time to Visit Peru
The dry season (May to October) is the best time for trekking and outdoor activities. June through August offers the clearest skies but is also peak tourist season. The shoulder months — April, May, September, and October — offer great weather with fewer crowds.
The rainy season (November to March) brings lush green landscapes and lower prices, though some treks like the Inca Trail close in February for maintenance.
Peru Travel Tips from Local Experts
As a Cusco-based tour operator, here are our top tips for visiting Peru:
- Altitude: Cusco sits at 3,400m (11,150ft). Arrive a day early to acclimatize before trekking. Coca tea helps with altitude symptoms.
- Currency: The Peruvian Sol (PEN) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in Cusco. US dollars are accepted at some tourist spots.
- Language: Spanish is the main language, with Quechua spoken in rural areas. Our bilingual guides speak English and Spanish fluently.
- Safety: Peru is generally safe for tourists. Stick to reputable tour operators, watch your belongings in crowded areas, and use registered taxis.
- What to Pack: Layers are essential — temperatures vary dramatically between sun and shade, day and night. Bring sunscreen, a rain jacket, and comfortable hiking shoes.
Peruvian Culture and Cuisine
Peru’s cultural heritage spans thousands of years, from the Inca Empire to Spanish colonial influence to modern indigenous traditions. Festivals like Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) in June showcase living Andean culture.
Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned. Don’t miss ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos in Cusco’s restaurants. For a deeper cultural experience, join a local family for a traditional Pachamanca earth-oven feast.
How to Plan Your Peru Trip
The best way to experience Peru is with a local guide who knows the culture, the trails, and the hidden gems. At Wonders of Peru Expeditions, we create personalized itineraries based on your interests, fitness level, and travel dates.
Popular trip durations:
- 5-7 days: Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu
- 8-10 days: Add Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, or the Inca Trail
- 12+ days: Include the Ausangate Trek, Lake Titicaca, or the Amazon
Start Planning Your Peru Adventure
Ready to explore Peru? This Peru travel guide is just the beginning. Contact our team for personalized recommendations, or browse all our tours to find the perfect adventure.
→ Book your Peru trip today with Wonders of Peru Expeditions.
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