The Ultimate Peru Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Peru is one of the most diverse places I have ever been. I truly have not seen anything like it that compares. It has the beach, world-class food, vibrant cities that are so colorful, desert landscapes, the Amazon rainforest, and ancient history. It has literally everything!! There are an endless amount of activities and you can spend weeks here.
From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the epic food scene in Lima, here’s everything you need to know before you plan the perfect trip to Peru.
QUICK PERU TRAVEL FACTS:
Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Language: Spanish
Time Zone: Central
Airport: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) - this is the main airport to fly into
When to Travel: May - October
Can I Drink the Water? No, bottled water only!!!
Power Plugs: Type A and Type C (Same as USA)
PERU - PRE TRIP MUST DO’S:
Before every international trip, I do these 3 things:
Get an eSim
International phone plans are expensive!! I use an eSim to stay connected so I have data as soon as I land.
Buy Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is always worth it, especially in today’s climate. Read why I always get it here. It covers flight delays, lost luggage, and medical emergencies. Just trust me on this one.
Register my trip at the nearest US embassy (especially for my solo travelers)
This is a free service that traveler’s can use so you can be contacted in case of an emergency. It’s always good to register where you are especially if you’re solo. You can do it here!
travel essentials I don’t travel without:
CURRENCY & MONEY TIPS
Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN).
While most places accept credit card, you will want cash for:
taxis
markets
street food
any tipping - For tipping at restaurants/bars, a 10% tip is expected.
Avoid exchanging cash at the airport if possible - the exchange rate is much higher! You will want to find ATMs to withdraw funds. Tip: if you can find your bank’s international bank partners, it could help you avoid the exchange fees.
IS PERU SAFE?
I am going to be honest, I had a lot of people warn me about the safety here in Peru as a solo female traveler. But my short answer is… yes, it’s safe.
Long answer: it’s like any other major city. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid being flashy, keep your wallet and phone zipped up and out of sight. I never felt unsafe but was pretty cautious. All my hotels were within close walking distance to anywhere I needed to go.
I recommend:
Using Uber and avoiding Taxis unless they are registered
Avoid wearing anything flashy and keep your phone close, especially when a bunch of solicitors approach you
Staying in well-reviewed accommodations
Other than that, Peru is a heavy solo travel destination. There were so many other solo travelers when I was there!!
ALTITUDE SICKNESS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
I can not stress how important this part is! I did not suffer as bas as most but I still struggled and I know some people that it really took out. If you’re visiting Cusco, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Machu Picchu, or Lake Titicaca, altitude can and will affect you.
Cusco sits at over 11,000 feet above sea level which is really high.
My advice:
Spend 2–3 days acclimating before strenuous hikes, take things slow and don’t try to overexert yourself
Drink plenty of water
Limit alcohol your first day
Drink coca tea
Pack electrolyte packets
My experience was getting super intense headaches and getting out of breath easily. So make sure to pack medicine and rest when you need it.
Trust me—you do not want to underestimate the altitude.
HOW TO GET AROUND PERU
Domestic Flights: Peru is much larger than it looks on a map. Flying between cities can save you significant time. I flew into Lima but then fly domestically to Cusco.
Bus Travel: Overnight buses are affordable and popular for budget travelers.
Train: You'll need to take a train to Machu Picchu unless you're hiking the Inca Trail. The PeruRail can take you to other cities if you want to explore day trips.
Walking: Neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco in Lima are very walkable. Cusco is also extremely walkable - there’s just a ton of stairs!
Uber: I used Uber anytime I felt like I couldn’t walk somewhere. In Lima, it’s super accessible and cheap. Cusco, there is Uber but I didn’t need it as much especially when there’s heavy traffic, you will need to take a taxi or walk.
WHERE TO STAY IN PERU
Best for First-Time Visitors: Lima
Miraflores
Stay in Miraflores for access to everything. It’s safe, walkable, and packed with restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Antigua Miraflores Hotel - boutique hotel in the heart of Miraflores
INNSiDE by Meliá Lima Miraflores - modern hotel with outdoor pool
Sonesta Hotel Miraflores - more upscale stay close to the beach
Barranco
Right next to Miraflores is Barranco which is the more artsy neighborhood. You’ll find the best coffee here and a thriving food scene. It’s also more budget-friendly to stay here
Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel - a gorgeous property with great breakfast
Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels - for a more luxury stay with a gorgeous aesthetic
VRBO in Barranco - more budget friendly stay in an apartment
Best for Mountains and Machu Picchu: Cusco
Stay near Plaza de Armas for easy access to restaurants and tours. It’s extremely walkable and the best area for solo travelers. There are tons of Airbnb stays outside of the city but I don’t recommend it because it will be hard to get around.
Casona Dorada Hotel - a locally owned and operated cute hotel. I stayed here and loved it. The rooms were so cute, beds were comfy with cozy blankets, and they will do your laundry for you. I also left my ring there and they went above and beyond to get it back to me!!!
Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco - top rated breakfast and gives you that ancient feel
Hilton Garden Inn Cusco - get those hilton points!
Best for Luxury Travelers: Sacred Valley
If your budget allows, spend a few nights in the Sacred Valley. The scenery is incredible, and the luxury hotels here are some of the best in South America.
Tambo del Inka - if you want true luxury and to splurge
Sonesta Hotel Yucay - a free breakfast buffet and beautiful terrace
Parwa Guest House - budget-friendly stay in a great location
WHAT TO EAT IN PERU
Peru is considered one of the best culinary destinations in the world - specifically Lima. Wait, not considered, it is. It’s ranked #1 best food city in the world!
You have to try these staples:
Ceviche
Lomo saltado
Picarones
Cuy
Causa
Pisco sour
Go on a Food Tour
A food tour is one of the best ways to experience Peruvian cuisine. It’s usually how I always start a trip because 1) it gives you the lay of the land 2) you get to try the staples 3) perfect place to meet people.
Best Restaurants in Lima
Astrid y Gastón - this is a must!!! one of my favorite restaurants I’ve ever been to
Best Restaurants in Cusco
Don’t forget about the cocktail bars!! Check out this list if you want to hit up some of the World’s Best 50 Bars.
For even more recommendations, check out my full guide to the best restaurants in Peru.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PERU
Explore Machu Picchu
Duh, this is why people come here right. This is Peru's most iconic attraction, and tickets often sell out months in advance. So book early! You need to book through the government website here. If you want to know everything about visiting Machu Picchu, check out my blog post here.
Wander the Sacred Valley
Visit:
Ollantaytambo
Pisac
Moray
Maras Salt Mines
Take a Cooking Class in Lima
Learn how to make ceviche and pisco sours from local chefs. So you can take your talents back home!
BOOK YOUR CLASS HERE
Visit Rainbow Mountain
This was one of the toughest, most rewarding expriences. You can take an ATV and then hike the rest of the way up the mountain. The altitude is no joke so make sure you are hydrating and taking it slow!
Go Sandboarding in Huacachina
This desert oasis is one of Peru's most unique destinations. This was one of my favorite parts of the trip. You can do the full day tour to Paracas and Huacachina - this was a bit too long of a day for me. Or you can just book the sand dunes at sunset but you will need to find transportation to Huacachina via shared van, rental car, or public bus.
For more ideas, check out my full guide to the best things to do in Peru.
WHAT TO WEAR IN PERU
Thanks to the higher elevation, temperatures are relatively mild at year round. Think warm during the day and cool at night. You will definitely need a light jacket so make sure to pack layers that you can rotate in and out. You’ll need them.
Packing for Peru can be tricky because the climate changes dramatically depending on where you are. Read more about my packing tips here.
Must-pack items - check out my full carry-on list here.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket
- Portable charger
- Reusable water bottle
- Crossbody bag or small backpack (I took this everywhere)
- Sunscreen (even when it’s cold!!)
- Electrolyte packets
I put together a collection of items I did wear and would wear below!
Peru is one of those places that will surprise you in the best way possible. Between the incredible food, rich history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences, it's easy to see why so many travelers fall in love with this country. I know I did. I’m already planning a trip back.
Whether you're planning a girls' trip, a solo adventure, or your dream bucket-list vacation, Peru deserves a spot on your travel list.
